Berta Zuniga Obituary

Berta Salazar Zuniga, a devoted educator, beloved matriarch, and steadfast friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 78, surrounded by the family she nurtured with unwavering love. Born on June 20, 1947, in Del Rio, Texas, Berta's life was a testament to family, grit, and quiet strength-a life that shaped generations. For over 30 years, Berta poured her heart into the classroom, teaching in both Culberson County ISD and San Felipe Del Rio CISD. She believed in the power of education to unlock futures and never wavered in her commitment to her students. After retiring from public education, her entrepreneurial spirit flourished as she built warm, welcoming circles through Princess House, Celebrating Home, and AVON. Her joy in these ventures wasn't just about the products-it was about the people. Berta was a woman who made others feel seen and safe. Her home became more than just an address-it was a gathering place filled with love, laughter, and the aroma of her famous German Chocolate cakes. Whether she was helping with the annual Easter picnic, sewing and quilting for loved ones, or simply offering a listening ear, Berta created an environment where others felt like family. Many of her children's friends considered themselves part of her extended household-and they always will. She was known for her loyalty, her strength of character, and her fierce devotion to the people she loved. Whether as a mentor, friend, or neighbor, she showed up-offering wisdom, warmth, and a lasting sense of welcome. She now reunites in eternal peace with her husband of 43 years, Ricardo Zuniga; her parents, Alejandro and Julia Salazar; and her siblings, Alejandro Jr., Elvira, and Alfredo Salazar. Her legacy lives on in the family she so dearly cherished: Her children, Sandy Zuniga Garza (Celso) of Uvalde, Rick Zuniga (Veronica) of San Antonio, and Julie Zuniga Alderete (Ricardo) of Del Rio; Her grandchildren, Freddy Patiño Jr. (Linda), Ritchie Alderete, Arianna Alderete, and Alejandra Alderete; Her great-grandchildren, Giancarlo Patiño , Camila Patiño, and Ace Patiño-each of whom carry pieces of her spirit into the future. She is also lovingly remembered by her brothers and sisters: Estella Spencer, Oralia Hinojos, Gloria Salazar, Guadalupe Ramos, Anita Molinar, Santiago Salazar, Abelardo Salazar, and Janie Coheen, along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Visitation will be held Monday, July 21, 2025, from 4:00pm-8:00pm at Amistad Funeral Home, 114 Fletcher Dr., Del Rio, Texas 78840. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, July 22, 2025, 10:00am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 307 E. Losoya St., Del Rio, Texas 78840. Gentlemen with the honor of pallbearers; Rick Zuniga, Joe Rodriguez, Ramiro Rodriguez, Celso Garza, Freddy Patiño and Ricardo Alderete. Honorary pallbearers; Santiago Salazar, Abelardo Salazar and Ricardo Gabriel Alderete. Interment to follow at Sunset Memorial Oaks Cemetery. In honor of Berta's vibrant spirit, family and friends are invited to wear pink, a color that reflects her warmth, strength, and the love she so freely gave.