Obituary of SFC. Alfonso Gallegos Zapata, Sr.

Our beloved and respected SFC. Alfonso Gallegos Zapata, Sr., age 89 years, resident of Austin, was born into Eternal Life on Thursday, April 1, 2021. He is reunited with his beloved wife of 67 years, Isabel Garza Zapata; his daughter, Patty Zapata; his parents, Antonio Zapata, Sr. and Cristina Gallegos; and his brothers, Ramiro Zapata, Edward Zapata, and Jesse Zapata. 

SFC. Zapata honorably served in the US Army Special Forces, courageously fought in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, was a recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, served in operations alongside his son, Capt. Ricardo Zapata, and molded future generations of soldiers as a drill instructor. He leaves a lasting legacy in the military and a grateful nation mourns his loss. 

He is honorably remembered by his loving children, David Zapata, Capt. Ricardo Zapata, and his spouse, Sandra, Alfonso Zapata, Jr., Millie Zapata, and her spouse, Michelle, Xavier Zapata, and his spouse, Mary Duran, Jesse Zapata; 19 adoring grandchildren, nine treasured great-grandchildren, with one more on the way; his brother, Tony Zapata, Jr.; his sisters-in-law, Sally Zapata, Shirley Zapata; numerous nieces, nephews, other family members, esteemed colleagues, and many friends.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 8, 2021, promptly beginning at 5:00 p.m., with Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7:00 p.m., at Mission Funeral Home - South Side, 6204 South First Street, Austin, Texas. The chapel will close to visitors at 9:00 p.m. that evening. 

A Committal Service will take place the following morning, Friday, April 9, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at Central Texas State Veteran's Cemetery in Killeen, Texas. 

Service Live-streaming will NOT be available for SFC. Zapata's services. 

Due to the Coronavirus /  COVID-19 Restrictions from the City of Austin,

capacity levels are restricted at funeral homes, churches, and cemeteries.

Each person entering the funeral home, church, and cemetery will be required to wear a mask

and to practice social distancing of 6 feet or more.   If you are ill or are concerned about the virus,

it is recommended that you not attend services. 

The family is so grateful to everyone for their understanding, love, and support

during this very difficult time.