Felipe Zamora

Celebrating the Life of Felipe “Papa” Zamora

Felipe Zamora, a man who lived with a heart modeled after Jesus and a mission to leave no soul behind, passed away on March 4, leaving behind a legacy of unconditional love, grease-stained hands, and a crowded path to Heaven.

A Devoted Husband A Covenant of Almost 47 Years: A Love That Led the Way

For nearly 47 years, Felipe’s life was an ongoing love letter to his wife. She never had to wonder if she was loved. Their marriage was more than a partnership; it was a masterclass in devotion. Every single day, without fail, Felipe made sure his bride knew she was the most beautiful woman in the world. He worked tirelessly, pouring his strength and sweat into ensuring she had everything she ever needed, putting her comfort and joy above his own.

The love they shared was a light that didn't just stay within the walls of their home. For decades, they were a blueprint for others, showing what a Christ-centered marriage truly looks like. By sharing their journey—the highs, the lows, and the faith that tied it all together—they strengthened countless other marriages, teaching others how to stay anchored in the Lord and in each other. Mama was truly, deeply, and "sooooooo" loved, and that love changed everyone who saw it.

Grease, Gears, and Grace

To his daughter, Felipe was more than a father; he was a teacher, a hero and even her greatest fan, some might say her Cheerleader. He was a mentor who taught her that there was no problem—mechanical or spiritual—that couldn’t be worked through. Their bond was forged under the hoods of '66 Mustangs, but their crowning achievement was the last project: a 1971 Chevy Cheyenne K10, which they considered their best work yet.

In a beautiful full-circle moment, Felipe recently surprised his daughter on her birthday with a '65 Mustang, a mirror image of the one they had poured their hearts into when she was in high school—a final, tangible symbol of a father’s enduring love.

The Joy of “Papá”

Felipe’s heart grew even larger when it came to his son-in-law, whom he loved dearly and claimed as his own son. Their relationship was built on a shared foundation of faith; Felipe cherished their long discussions about the "things of the Lord." He spoke often of his immense pride in his son’s years of dedicated service to the Air National Guard. Most importantly, Felipe rested easy knowing his daughter and granddaughter were loved with the same depth and devotion he had modeled his entire life.

He looked upon his son-in-law with immense pride, not just as family, but as a "Man of God" whose growth and faith brought Felipe great peace and joy.

A Legacy in the Field

Felipe’s love for his granddaughter was unceasing and reached a new peak with her. While he began teaching her the mechanics of cars just as he had with his daughter, he took equal delight in seeing her inherit his deep love for the simple things—specifically his horses and his goats. Last year, for her birthday, he gave her his horse—fittingly named Legacy. Some of their most sacred moments were spent shepherding his goats together. In those quiet hours in the field, Felipe passed down more than just animal husbandry; he used those walks to have long, deep talks about life and the Lord, planting seeds of faith that will grow for generations.

A Humble Student of the Word

Felipe often said, “I’m not an educated man, but I love learning about my Lord” While he may not have had formal degrees, he was a scholar of the heart. His daily devotion to Scripture shaped him into a man who saw past the flaws and burdens of others to see their worth.

His greatest goal was simple: to make Heaven crowded. Felipe never met a stranger he wouldn't chat with, and he had a supernatural ability to love those whom others might overlook. He guided a multitude of souls toward a relationship with the Lord, not through judgment, but through the sheer warmth of his friendship and his willingness to work hard to help a friend or a stranger in need.

A Life Well-Lived

Felipe loved life because he loved the Creator of it. He leaves behind a wide circle of "chosen family"—friends who were treated as kin—and a community that is better because he was in it. He will be remembered for his laughter, his calloused hands, his gentle spirit, and the way he made everyone feel like they were the most important person in the room. He was always the one ready to do what he must to make someone laugh. His grin and giggle was one that would make you happy even if you were not ready to be.

Well Done

Again Felipe loved life because he knew the Author of it. He leaves behind a world that is a little bit brighter, a few more vintage engines running smoothly, and a path to Heaven that is much more crowded because he was here.

"His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord." — Matthew 25:21

Survivors include: wife, Maria Ermelinda Zamora of Newcastle; daughter, Maria Waller and husband, David of Graham; granddaughter, Magdalena Waller of Graham.

He was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings.

A celebration of life will be held Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 11 a.m. in Oak Street Baptist Church.  Burial will follow in Pioneer Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Oak Street Baptist Church.