Elizabeth Zarate

Eulogy for Elizabeth “China” Zarate

Good [morning/afternoon], everyone. We’re here today to remember and celebrate Elizabeth Zarate—known to all of us as China. That sweet nickname came from her beautiful chinky hazel eyes, a small glimpse of the warmth and love she carried inside.

China was born on December 29, 1960, the second oldest daughter. She was the child of Virginia and Carmelo Diaz and one of ten siblings: Benito and Esteban Ortiz, Edward, Alberto, Rita, Antonio, Angelo, Carmelita, and Elena Diaz.

She was blessed with three amazing children—Jesus Antonio Gonzalez, Virginia Irene Gonzalez Kennie, and John Diaz—who meant everything to her.

And then, in 2005, something truly special happened. She married Miguel Zarate, the love of her life. From the moment they met, they were inseparable. China loved him deeply, and Miguel adored her just as much. They were partners in every sense of the word. They shared over 20 years of devotion, laughter, and true companionship. Whether it was doing puzzles together at the table, dancing in the living room, or simply sitting in comfortable silence, their love was constant. He was her rock, her joy, her safe place—and she was all that and more to him. Their bond was unbreakable.

Family was everything to China. She wasn’t just a mother—she was Nana, sister, aunt, wife, and friend. She gave so much love to every generation. She was Nana to Diante & Kailey Perry, China Buie, Natalia Rose Green, Linda, Brandon and Linden Kennie, Vansen, and Vanity Dominguez. And a great Nana to Aralia Kennie and the newest little blessing, baby Green.

China was a strong, God-fearing woman who worked hard every day. She earned both her TLC and CDL licenses—driving diesel trucks, taxi cabs, and even an ice cream truck. There was no wheel too big or road too tough for her. She was never afraid of a challenge, never afraid to get her hands dirty.

She was a fierce competitor—a pool champion, outfield catcher for the Rising Stars Women's Softball Team, and nearly unbeatable at dominoes, spades, and rummy. She also loved handball and bowling, and behind that gentle smile was a fire and determination that never quit.

Her creativity touched everything. She was a gifted singer, dancer, pianist, cook, and baker—her cakes were art, from school buses with gumstick windows to three-tier wedding showstoppers. She made Halloween costumes, crocheted outfits, and lovingly created for my doll babies as a child. She poured concrete, laid bricks, built windows—she even built homes. There was truly nothing she couldn’t do once she set her mind to it.

And she found joy in the little things—I Love Lucy, Jerry Lewis, Betty Boop, and her favorite horror movies.

But more than all of this, China was the heart of our family. Her smile could brighten any space. Her laughter stayed with you. Her energy filled the room. She was the one dancing in the living room, singing in the kitchen, making everything feel alive and warm and full of love.

She gave me everything I am—her love, her strength, her wisdom. She shaped me with her hands, her heart, and her spirit, and even now, I feel her guiding me.

Mommy, you were my first home and my forever heart. Your love is stitched into every part of who I am. Though you're no longer here, your presence surrounds me—gentle, strong, and unshakable. You didn’t leave us empty. You left us full—with your laughter, your strength, your lessons, and your light.

Until we meet again… I’ll carry you with me. Always.

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