Damiana Garza Zuckero

She was surrounded by her family, just as she lived her life — enveloped in love.

Our mom was a sweet and kind soul, known for her warm heart and gentle spirit. Everyone who had the privilege of knowing her was touched by her compassion, generosity, and unwavering kindness. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel special, always lending a listening ear, a helping hand, or a smile that could brighten even the darkest of days.

Born on October 8, 1941, in Houston, Damiana (affectionately known to her family as Yana), was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. She was deeply committed to her family, and nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was their greatest supporter and a constant source of unconditional love.

She was the 7th of 14 children and the last child to be born at home in 6th Ward Historic District in Houston. Damiana was baptized at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, attended St. Joseph Catholic Grade School and graduated high school from Incarnate Word Academy in 1960. Damiana spent seven years in religious service at the convent, Sisters of the Incarnate Word Order, and took the name Sister Mary Paula. During her time in the convent, she became an educator teaching at several Catholic schools. After graduating with her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from St. Thomas University, Damiana continued her career teaching in the Aldine Independent School district until her retirement in 2001.

As a devout Roman Catholic, her life was a testament to the power of kindness and servitude. Whether she was volunteering in the church, community, or simply offering comfort to those in need, Damiana was a shining example of selflessness and grace. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Damiana was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, George Nicholas Zuckero; her parents, Margarito deAnda Garza and Paula Aguilar Garza; and her siblings, Delfina Garza Ruiz, Olga Garza Cano and Bill Garza.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Paula Zuckero Raska and Steven Raska, daughter Camilla Zuckero; granddaughters Alexandra Nicole Raska and Kathryn Marie Raska; grandsons, Phillip Anthony Raska, Sebastian George Triola and Frank Nicholas Triola; siblings: Alice Herrera, Theresa Hernandez, Jorge Garza, Rudy Garza, Gene Garza, Vangie Robertson, Yolanda Garza, Irene Cabrera, Robert Garza and John Garza; and numerous sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers: Phillip Raska, Sebastian Triola, Frank Triola, Steve Garza, Louis Herrera, Mark Luna, Greg McGowen and Jones T. Robertson III.

Damiana will be missed beyond measure. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy of love, kindness and compassion will continue to inspire and comfort us.

A celebration of Damiana's life will be held with a visitation on Thursday, October 10, from 4:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. and Rosary Service at 6:30 p.m. at Brookside Funeral Home - Champions, 3410 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, TX 77068; a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, October 11 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church, 7810 Cypresswood Drive, Spring, TX 77379; and a Rite of Committal at 2:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 8022 Airline Drive, 77037.

The family asks that donations be made in memory of Damiana Zuckero to either Casa Juan Diego: P. O. Box 70113, Houston, TX, 77270 Attn: Louise Zwick; St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church: 7810 Cypresswood Drive, Attn: St. Joseph Altar Guild; or Assumption Catholic Church: 901 Roselane St. Houston, TX 77037.