Matilde "Gutierrez" Zapata passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at the age of 87.  Matilde was born on March 25, 1937, in Mission, Texas, to Concepcion Gutierrez and Francisca (Ozuna) Gutierrez.

Matilde was the heart and soul of her family, known as the "matriarch" for her strong will and determination. She was the foundation that held her family together, often referred to as "the rock" and a mother who played the role of both parents to her children. She was a woman who loved to joy ride and playing her favorite game, BINGO, which was always accompanied by her infectious laughter and joy.  She will be remembered for her resilience, unconditional love, fierce and independent spirit and unwavering strength.

Matilde was preceded in death by her parents, Concepcion "Chon" and Francisca Gutierrez; children, Rolando Bazan, Frank Bazan Jr., Richard Bazan and Rosemary Silva; and siblings, Rogelio Gutierrez, Abel Gutierrez, Francsico Gutierrez, Raul Rios and Angelita De La Fuente.

She is survived by her children, Ofelia Garcia, Odelia DiPaolo, Diana Rosales, Celia B. Lopez, David Bazan, Joe Zapata Jr., Miguel A. Zapata, Janie G. Zapata, Roberto G. Zapata, Matilda "Mochie" Cavazos, Humberto Zapata and Frances Zapata; along with 46 grandchildren, 82 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren.

Services for Matilde are scheduled for Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Hurley Funeral Home, starting with a visitation at 3:00 pm until 9:00 pm, followed by a reciting of the rosary at 7:00 pm.  On Wednesday, May 15, 2024, a funeral service will be held at Hurley Funeral Home, starting at 10:00 am, with burial to follow at Campbellton City Cemetery.