Zora was born in Montgomery, Alabama to a military family. During her life, Zora lived in many places, but for the last 16 years, she and her husband, Leigh called Las Vegas home. But like any true Texan, when she heard the great state call to her, she had to come back to her hometown. Zora lived in Texas for only a brief time before her passing, but was lucky to have many exceptional friends near her in her final days.

Zora was a life long Spurs fan, spending many hours rooting for her favorite team from the stands and from home. She loved the blues, gospel, and true to her Texan heritage, great country music. Zora was an avid reader, loved to cross stitch and do needlepoint, and cared very deeply for the welfare of animals. She also loved the San Antonio Riverwalk, Gruene Hall, Wurstfest, and just about anything to do with the Texas Hill Country. She especially loved the spring in Texas, when bluebonnets are in full bloom. She loved her family very much, and was always the first to offer help when it was needed. In addition to her husband and son, Zora was blessed through the strength of her personality and charisma to have a huge extended family. Many friends saw her as a mother or grandmother figure.

Zora had a style all her own. She was definitely her own person, and like a true Texan, didn’t care whether or not anyone approved. She did what she loved with a passion and flair that was uniquely hers. Everyone that knew her could not help but to be touched by her, whether it was in her struggle against breast cancer and her involvement with the Komen Foundation, the American Heart Association, or through her vocal support for organ donation.

Zora was preceded in death by her sister, Neva Riddle, and her nephew, Steven Willis. She is survived by her husband, Leigh Furman, her mother, Idelle McElvy, her son, Christopher Zepeda and wife, Kristina Zepeda, her nephew, Keith Arenson, wife, Azure Arenson, and daughter, Sarah, as well as her sister, Jessica Bell and husband, John.

Zora was the best mother, wife, and friend any person could hope to have. She was a selfless soul, as any of the people she ever met could attest. She will be missed each and every day.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 11, 2012 at Schertz Funeral Home at 4:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Heart Association.