Our dear and beloved San Juanita (Janie) Reyna Zapata was called to her heavenly home on Saturday, July 3, 2021, while in the hospital. She passed away peacefully at the age of 71, following a long illness.
Janie was born on March 13, 1950, to Victor and Gumesinda Reyna in Austin, TX. She was raised in East Austin, and graduated from Johnston High School. She met the love of her life, Frank Zapata, at Metz Park where he worked as a young teen. It was love at first sight for both of them, and from that day on, they were inseparable. Their favorite hang out was the infamous “Johnny Boy’s” burger joint where they had many memories and fun times with friends. Janie and Frank recently celebrated their 51 year wedding anniversary. She had a very successful career working for the state of Texas (20+ years), and retired from Slack and Davis Law Firm (18 years). Janie was part of the Christo Rey Catholic Church Community prior to joining Saint Margaret Mary Catholic Church; she was very devoted to her faith.
She was proceeded by her parents Victor and Gumesinda Reyna.
Janie was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. Left to cherish her memory is her beloved husband, Frank Zapata of 51 years, who loved her immensely and was always by her side. Her oldest daughter, Annette Wheeler, and husband Jeremy Wheeler; her sons, Frankie Zapata and Orlando Zapata, her grandchildren: Renay Zapata, Nate Gonzales, Ayden, Annika, and Anden Wheeler, Ryan and Zachary Zapata as well as two great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews that she loved so much and enjoyed spending time with. Also, are her two loving sisters Lupe Moreno and Rosalinda Soto, sisters forever! The chain has been broken for now, but they will all be reunited in paradise someday.
Those who knew Janie, and even those who knew her for a short time lost an incredible shining light in their lives. Because you didn’t have to know her long to love her instantly. She had the most beautiful and infectious smile! It was truly unforgettable! Her laughter, presence, and how she screamed loudly when something startled her were all characteristics that made her so special and unique. Janie expressed herself passionately in so many ways, but it was her love for fashion, decorations, traditions, music, gifts, and design that caught everyone’s eye and heart. When she walked into a room, she didn’t just light up the room, she had that special sparkle that made you smile just to see her. She always matched from head to toe, and she had so many beautiful outfits and hats that made her look fashionable. Details were important to Janie and you could see this in everything she valued. Janie’s personal touch always left a memorable impression. Above all, it was Janie’s love for Family, friends, and faith that defined her life. Janie enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s sports, spending time with friends, and taking vacations, especially the Carnival Cruises. She cherished the bond with her sisters that embodied her family values. Janie will live in hearts and minds forever because the love that we have for her is an eternal love. Her presence will live on in us and we will be reminded of her through all that is beautiful like the stars, birds, rainbows, and flowers. This is a new beginning…..
Lord, you will ordain peace for us: for you also have worked all our works in us. -Isaiah 26:12
For GOD so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting Life.- John 3:16
Visitation will be from 5-7 PM Sunday with the Rosary service to begin at 7 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will begin 10:30 AM Monday at Our Lady Of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Interment to follow at Assumption Cemetery.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18