Rita Moreno Zavala

Rita Moreno Zavala born in Veracruz Mexico on May 22, 1939 entered rest on September 10, 2015 at the age of 76. She is preceded in death by her husband Damaso V. Zavala; parents, Florencio Moreno Dueñes and Esther Castillo Moreno; brother, Florencio Moreno; niece, Rita Beatrice Lopez.


She is survived by her son Martin Moreno; siblings, Adela Ramos, Tomasa Lara, Ester Salas, Perfecto Moreno, Guadalupe Moreno, Maria Robles, Oscar Moreno, Joel Moreno, and Martina Moreno; grandchildren, Jennifer Moreno-Romano, Martin Rodriguez Jr., Amanda Marie Rodriguez, and Crystal Yvette Moreno; great-grandchildren, Paris Romano, David Romano III, and Sháila Romano; numerous extended family and friends.


Rita began working in her early 20's in the restaurant business at the Oasis Restaurant then Panchos Restaurant in Brownsville, TX. Later she moved to San Antonio and began working at Tink a Tako where she met her husband. Later they opened the original and well-known "Rita's Fiesta Café" located on Bandera Rd.


She had a strong character with a loving and generous heart which led to her success as a business owner and a friend to many, as witnessed by the many regulars who were on a first name basis with her and her loyal staff. She was involved in every aspect of the business and always took time to sit and talk to anyone who came into to her restaurant. Her recipes were always delicious and had to be up to her excellent standards. She will be dearly missed by everyone who knew and loved her.


Visitation will be held on Tuesday September 15, 2015 from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM with the recitation of the Rosary at 7:00 PM in the Hillcrest Chapel. Procession will depart Hillcrest on Wednesday September 16, 2015 at 8:15 AM for 9:00 AM Mass at St. Leo's Catholic Church. Interment to follow at Sunset Memorial Park.


In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to The St. Jude Children's Research Fund : www.stjude.org/give