Alicia S. Zuniga

Alicia S. Zuniga, 94, of Laredo, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, grace, and a life richly shared with family, friends, and her community. Born on March 14, 1931, in Laredo, Texas, Alicia grew up with a deep love for learning and a desire to help others—a calling that would come to define both her professional and personal life.

Alicia’s journey was rooted in education and family. In 1950, she married Eladio Zuniga. Two years later, she earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Texas A&I University in Kingsville, Texas, followed by a master’s degree from Texas A&M International University in Laredo. Her passion for teaching filled her nearly every day; she served as an educator across both the public and private sectors, guiding students at every level, from elementary to post-secondary courses.

Throughout her more than six-decade career, Alicia inspired countless students not only through academic lessons but through compassion, encouragement, sincerity, and warmth. A woman wholly dedicated to her calling. Colleagues often spoke of her contagious laughter and her ability to see potential in everyone she met.

Outside the classroom, Alicia dedicated much of her life to faith and community. She taught religious education, volunteered regularly at the local hospital, and was an active member of several social clubs. Her generous spirit touched all corners of her hometown, where she was known for her bright smile and unwavering optimism. She cherished time with her loved ones, often surrounded by friends and family, where her laughter could fill a room and her presence could bring light to even the quietest moments.

Those who knew Alicia will remember her as kind, gracious, full of life and love—a woman whose warmth made others feel seen and valued. Though her passing marks the end of a remarkable life, her legacy of compassion and joy will live on in those she taught, served, and loved. Alicia is survived by Belinda Zuniga-Silva (daughter), Eduardo Zuniga (son), Cynthia Zuniga-Puig (daughter), Melissa Zuniga-Marshall (daughter), Araceli Zuniga (daughter-in-law), Charles Puig (son-in-law), Scott Marshall (son-in-law), her sister Amelda Ramirez, 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by Eladio Zuniga (husband), Eladio Rene Zuniga (son), Guadalupe Saenz, Sr., and Gertrudis Saenz (parents), Guadalupe Saenz, Jr. (brother), and Ricardo Silva (son-in-law).

Alicia S. Zuniga’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her, a testament to a life lived with faith, love, and joy.

The family will be receiving condolences on Friday evening, January 30, 2026 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd.; where a Vigil for the Deceased and Rosary will commence at 7 p.m.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Saturday morning, January 31, 2026 departing at 8:30 a.m. from Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels to San Martin De Porres Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 9 a.m. A Celebration of Life will follow.

Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at the family plot of the Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Eduardo Zuniga, Jr., Grayson Marshall, Matthew Arispe, Alonzo Ramirez III, Guadalupe Saenz III, and Ruben Jauregui. Honorary pallbearers are Charles Puig and Alex Arispe.

You may express your condolences, share your favorite memories, and sign the guestbook online at: www.joejacksonfuneralchapels.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and direction of the funeral service professionals at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd., Laredo, Texas 78041; (956)722-8850.