Mrs. Tana Zapata, of San Antonio, Texas and born May 2, 1936 in Ebáno, San Luis Potosí, México, passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2020 in Laredo, Texas of COVID-19 related causes. She was called home to be with our Lord and is reunited in heaven with her parents, Brígido and María Del Carmen Cruz, and her husband Reyes Tristan Zapata.

A deeply religious, compassionate and most of all, loving mother, she will be greatly missed by her children: Juan José Briseño of Laredo, TX, Jesús Briseño and wife Guille of Laredo, TX, Jaime Briseño of Arlington, VA, and Victor Hugo Briseño of San Antonio, TX; four grandchildren: Marizita, Monsy, Christopher and Jennifer and two great-grandchildren: Camilita and Ale and sister-in-law, Antonia "Tonie" Martinez of San Antonio, TX.

Tana's generous spirit and "alegria de vivir" are part of the memories she leaves behind, and one which her family and friends will treasure forever. An extraordinary cook, family gatherings – either casual or around the holidays - were joyous occasions which always included her delicious Mexican food, music, laughter and of course, margaritas. Her strong work ethic and indomitable will allowed her to rise from humble origins and laid the foundation for her sons' future personal and educational accomplishments. The love for her family, especially her sons was unconditional, boundless, and is her greatest legacy. Her deep compassion for others was well-known, always ready to lend a helping hand to friends or family near and far. Sadly, it was during an act of kindness that she contracted the virus which ultimately took her life.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, December 22, 2020 from 3:00pm to 7:30pm at Castillo Mission Funeral Home, 520 N. Gen. McMullen, San Antonio, TX 78228. Due to COVID-19, face masks will be required along with a strict limit on the number of people inside the chapel at any one time. If you plan to attend, please contact one of her sons for more details.

Family and friends will meet at Castillo Mission Funeral Home at 8:00am on Wednesday, December 23, 2020 to depart in procession for a brief 10:00am service at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78209.