Aransas Pass – Monica Melinda Zapata passed away on February 2, 2026 at the age of 47.

Monica was born in Kingsville, Texas on March 30, 1978 to Guadalupe (Reyna) and Rodolfo Santos III. As a passionate English teacher Monica made a lasting impact across the many school districts where she served. She believed deeply in the power of words, stories, and education to change lives. More importantly, she believed in her students. She inspired confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning, often seeing potential where others did not. Her dedication went far beyond the classroom, and her influence will continue through the countless students she taught, mentored, and encouraged.

Monica was a great daughter, sister and friend—loving, loyal, and endlessly giving. She was a source of strength and comfort to her family, always ready with encouragement, wisdom, and a listening ear. Her love was constant and sincere, and her presence brought warmth and reassurance to those closest to her.

Above all, Monica was a devoted and loving wife and mother to her husband and sons, whom she loved deeply and wholeheartedly. They were the pride and joy of her life. She supported them fiercely, celebrated their every milestone, and poured her heart into raising them with love, integrity, and strength. Her bond with her sons was a beautiful reflection of her selfless and nurturing spirit, and her love for them will remain forever.

Monica faced her battle with cancer with remarkable strength, grace, and determination. Even during her struggle, she remained thoughtful of others, teaching all of us what resilience, faith, and quiet bravery truly look like.

She was loved by many—family, friends, colleagues, and students alike—and will be remembered for her kindness, her passion for teaching, her devotion to her sons, and her unwavering love for those around her. Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for the time we had with her and for the beautiful example she set.

She is preceded in death by her sisters Andrea Rae Santos and Kara Danielle Santos, her maternal grandparents Jesus and Guadalupe Reyna, and her paternal grandparents Rodolfo and Elena Santos.

Survivors include her husband: Roland Zapata sons Gavin, Simon, and Dominic; and father: Rodolfo Santos III, mother: Guadalupe Santos, sisters: Larissa Ramirez, Alex Munoz, and Amanda Santos (Brandon Rivera).  She was also survived by all her nieces and nephews: Krisitina, Javier, and Christian Ramirez, Danielle and Audrina Munoz, and Haleigh, and Ryleigh Rivera. And grandson Ezra Dior Zapata.

Visitation will be held Monday, February 9, 2026, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Resthaven Funeral Home in Aransas Pass with The Recitation of the Holy Rosary beginning at 7:00 PM the same evening at the funeral home. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, February 10, 2026, 10:00 AM at St. Mary Star of the Sea.

Guestbook available online at www.resthavenfunerals.com
Arrangements entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home, Aransas Pass.