Mary Zavala

Mary (Fernandez) Zavala passed away on November 18, 2025 at the age of 88. Her late husband, Hermenegildo Zavala preceded her passing on June 12, 2001.

She was the youngest of three first generation American born children of Catalina (Diaz) (1910 -1996) and Alberto Fernandez (1900 – 1986). Oldest, Raymond Fernandez (1928 – 2024) passed away at the age of 96. Her sister Antonia Barbosa (1934 – 2007) passed away at the age of 73.

Mary worked in the nursing field her entire life. Her career began at Menorah Medical Center as a nurse's aide at the age of 17. During her tenure, she completed courses and training to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN). After twenty-two years at Menorah, Mary moved on to Truman Medical Center. In her sixth year there, she transferred to the City Jail in Kansas City, MO where after seventeen years she retired. Mary loved caring for the sick and elderly.

She is survived by a huge family that includes her three sons, their spouses, past and present extended family of two aunts, two uncles, eleven cousins, six nieces, two nephews, thirteen grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren.

A funeral for Mary will be held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Heartland Cremation & Burial Society, Raytown MO. Visitation will begin at 10am with a funeral service at 11am.

Rest in peace Mom