Zoraida Mercedes Laboy

Zoraida Mercedes Laboy, a radiant soul whose laughter and boundless energy warmed the hearts of many, passed from this earthly realm on April 18, 2025, in Katy, Texas. Zoraida was born on March 17, 1947, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, daughter of Teodoro Laboy and Virginia Perez. Her journey through life was marked by her vibrant spirit and unwavering love for family, which was reflected in every facet of her multifaceted life and career.

Zoraida embraced a variety of professional roles, exemplifying her adaptability and commitment to her work. With grace and enthusiasm, she served as a secretary, Spanish teacher, office assistant, and sales representative throughout her years, cherishing the relationships and experiences that each position cultivated. Ultimately, her career culminated in retirement, a bittersweet transition that signified the close of a chapter filled with dedication and hard work.

She attended Colegio Ponceño, San Conrado, and Academia Sta Maria in her beloved Ponce which established a solid foundation for the lifelong learning that she so treasured. Zoraida’s intellect and spirited disposition made her not only a formidable worker but also an inspiring figure to those around her.

Zoraida made her transition with her family to the United States in 1982 and lived in various places throughout her life here including, Charlotte, North Carolina, Miami, Florida, Florence, South Carolina and finally, Houston, Texas.

Zoraida was united in marriage with Noel Garcia on August 9, 2001, in Miami, Florida. Together, they shared a beautiful partnership until his passing in 2015, which left an indelible mark on her heart.

A woman with an infectious zest for life, Zoraida made everyone feel cherished and welcomed with her open arms and loving demeanor. She was a beacon of positivity, often finding joy in the simplest pleasures such as cooking, birthdays, music, travel, and the festive spirit surrounding holidays, especially Christmas. Yet, above all, Zoraida's greatest treasure was the time spent with her cherished family, an oasis of love and laughter where memories were woven into the fabric of their lives. She was a devout Catholic and found comfort in her unwavering faith.

Survived by her beloved daughters Natalia Inclan, Yanira Inclan Dudley, married to Brent, and Mercedes Inclan Hildebrand, married to Marcus, as well as her son Marco Inclan, Zoraida's legacy will continue through her grandchildren: Luis, Lourdes, Cameron, Carley, Wyatt, Garrett, Everett, Carlos, Aidan, Alexander, Anderson, and Alexus. Zoraida also leaves behind her siblings Teodoro, Virginia, Carmen, Migdalia, Olga, Mildred, Geraldo, Magaly, Maria, and Teresita, who carry forward the warmth of her spirit.

Zoraida is preceded in death by her father, Teodoro J Laboy Lamberty, and her mother, Virginia Perez Perez, whose union and love undoubtedly inspired her throughout her life. The memory of Noel Garcia, her husband, and her brother Jose, also lingers sweetly, reminding all who knew her of the strength of love that transcends time.

In celebrating Zoraida's life, let us remember a woman who embodied the spirit of joy and connection, whose laughter will continue to echo in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her. Her essence will remain ever-present in the gatherings of family, woven forever into their shared stories and cherished memories.