ZAPATA, TEXAS—Rudy Bustamante Jr., born in Plainview, Texas, and a proud 1971 graduate of Zapata High School, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Doctors Hospital in Laredo, Texas. He dedicated 42 years of his life to the Zapata County Independent School District, where he served as an Automotive Technology teacher, sharing his knowledge and passion with countless students over the years.

Beyond his dedication to education, Mr. Bustamante loved spending his time outdoors ranching, fishing, and working with horses. However, his greatest pride and happiness came from supporting his children and grandchildren in all their extracurricular activities. He was their biggest fan and constant source of encouragement.

Mr. Bustamante will be remembered for his hard work, kind heart, and unwavering love for his family and community. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.

Mr. Bustamante is preceded in death by his wife of 40 years Maribel Bustamante; parents, Rodolfo and Criselia Bustamante; brothers, Javier Bustamante and Roel "Roy" Bustamante.

Mr. Bustamante is survived by his daughters, Andrea M. Bustamante, Stacey R. (Javier) Romero, Rudie Lynn B. (Jonathan) Pacheco; grandchildren, Rebecca A. Uribe, Aberdeem M. Uribe, Tristen R. Jackson, Ryder L. Jackson, Arialinda C. Pacheco, Joylene J. Romero, Justin H. Salinas, Jonathan E. Pacheco Jr. and numerous other family members and friends.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026. We will open from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a catholic service at 7:00 p.m. a rosary will be prayed after the catholic service by Mar Martinez at Rose Garden Funeral Home.

On Friday, January 9, 2026, we will meet at Bustamante Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. for a graveside service and burial.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home Daniel A. Gonzalez, Funeral Director, 2102 N. US HWY 83 Zapata, Texas.