Leslie A Zepeda

Leslie Agnes Zepeda (née Adams), age 81, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona, the city where she was born and spent her life surrounded by the people and places she loved most.

Born and raised in Tucson, Leslie's journey began at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School. She continued her education at Salpointe Catholic High School, graduating with the class of 1962. Driven by a deep desire to care for others, she pursued studies at the University of Arizona's College of Nursing, laying the foundation for a life devoted to service, compassion, and community.

Throughout her life, Leslie embraced many roles with grace and dedication. She held several occupations over the years but found a lasting home at American Airlines, where she worked for 17 years before retiring. Her exceptional customer service earned her praise from countless travelers who were touched by her kindness and attentiveness. Leslie had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen and cared for-whether they were family, friends, or strangers passing through.

Leslie was the wife of a cattle rancher and daughter of a tree surgeon. Leslie's devotion to her family was unwavering. She is survived by her beloved Armando M. Zepeda; her loving children Armando A. Zepeda, Richard Zepeda, Malinda Zepeda, and Leslie D. Zepeda; and her cherished grandchildren Brieann Zepeda and Matthew Zepeda. Her siblings Winifred Dresp, Anthony Adams, Dale (Glenna) Adams, and Angela (Glenn) From also survive her, along with numerous nieces and nephews-including godchildren-who were all touched by her boundless love.

She was preceded in death by her parents Eugene Joseph Adams II and Angela R. Adams; siblings Francis David Adams, Eugene Joseph Adams III, and Victoria Adams; as well as nephews Lon Fancher and Tyler Adams.

Leslie's life was guided by faith. Raised in the Catholic tradition, she maintained a profound relationship with God throughout her life. Her spirituality was not just personal-it was active and giving. In her younger years, she was deeply involved in church activities and continued to volunteer throughout her life. She gave freely of her time at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School as a Cub Scout leader, Brownie troop leader, cheerleading coach, school nurse, and wherever else she was needed when her children and grandchild attended school there.

Her heart knew no bounds. Leslie opened her home to those in need-including serving as a foster parent-and treated every child as if they were her own. She loved spending time with family and friends above all else. Whether dancing joyfully, gardening with care, sewing thoughtful gifts, or baking treats from the heart-Leslie brought warmth into every space she entered.

She also had a playful spirit that never dimmed. An avid gamer well into her later years, Leslie enjoyed Pokémon Go, PC games, and mobile games-often sharing laughter over friendly competition with those around her.

Those who knew Leslie will remember her as a ferociously loving mother whose strength was matched only by the depth of her compassion. Her laughter was infectious; her smile could light up any room; and her joy for life left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to cross her path.

Leslie Agnes Zepeda was our mother, our heart, our best friend-and now our Angel. May her memory be a blessing and bring comfort to all who loved her. A Funeral Mass will be held on May 30, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Sacred Heart Parish Tucson 601 E Fort Lowell Rd. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 30, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 04:00 PM at Sacred Heart Parish, Venuti Hall, 601 E Fort Lowell Rd.

Please bring your memories of Leslie to share.