Carlos Mottu Zepeda, Sr.

Carlos Mottu Zepeda, Sr., age 83, of Bonney, Texas, passed away in the nighttime hours of Thursday, September 24, 2026, at UTMB Health Angleton Danbury Hospital.

He was born on April 16, 1943, in Richmond, Texas, to Guadalupe Zepeda and Maria Louisa Mottu. Growing up in the area, he developed the strong work ethic and resilience that defined his entire life.

A proud patriot, Carlos answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He served honorably from November 1967 to July 1970, achieving the rank of Sergeant. His exceptional valor and sacrifice in combat earned him numerous decorations, most notably the Purple Heart Medal. Semper Fi was not just a motto to him, but a code he lived by every day, shaping his lifelong values of discipline, loyalty, and quiet strength.

After his military service, Carlos built a long civilian career as a truck driver, where his dedication and reliability shone through until his retirement. Outside of work, Carlos deeply valued human connection and the simple pleasures of life. He loved nothing more than visiting friends and family, spending hours reminiscing about the old days, sharing stories, and keeping cherished memories alive. He also thoroughly enjoyed watching war movies and was well known for his impromptu singing of his favorite "oldies but goodies."

On February 13, 1982, he married the love of his life, Dora Cantu.

Carlos was preceded in death by his parents, Guadalupe and Maria Louisa Zepeda; his brothers, Gilberto Zepeda, Arturo Zepeda, and Guadalupe Zepeda, Jr.; and his sister, Beatrice Gonzalez.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Dora Zepeda. He leaves behind a legacy through his children: his sons, Carlos Zepeda, Jr. and wife Anna, Marcus Zepeda, and Aaron Zepeda; and his daughters, Blanca Richard and husband Ryan, and Veronica Zepeda and husband Andrew.

Carlos was the proud grandfather of Hannah, Connor, Lola, and Carlos III. He is also survived by his brothers, Salvador Zepeda and wife Janie, and Roy Zepeda and wife Pat; and his sisters, Norma Carlson and husband Troy, and Hortencia Arriago and husband Joe, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss his storytelling, music, and warm presence.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Palms Funeral Home, located at 2300 E. Mulberry Street, Angleton, Texas.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Palms Funeral Home in Angleton, Texas. Interment with full military honors will follow at Angleton Cemetery.