DELRAY BEACH, Fla. – The La Bamba Mexican & Spanish Restaurants family is grieving the loss of a cornerstone of its community. Zulma Camacho, a beloved bartender and lifelong local, was killed earlier this month in a car crash, leaving behind five children and a wide circle of grieving coworkers and regular customers.
Camacho, who grew up in Boca Raton, was known for much more than mixing drinks. Friends and colleagues describe her as the vibrant, welcoming heart of the restaurant—a devoted mother whose warmth and energy created a second home for patrons.
“Zulma wasn’t just a bartender; she was family to so many of us,” said Maria Gomez, a longtime coworker. “She remembered everyone’s name, asked about their kids, and had this incredible light that made you happy to be there. She worked so hard for her own children, and she talked about them all the time.”
In a powerful tribute to her impact, the Delray Beach location of La Bamba will close its doors this Sunday to allow the entire staff to attend Camacho’s funeral services in Boca Raton. The closure underscores her integral role within the restaurant’s family and the profound respect her colleagues hold for her.
Beyond the restaurant walls, Camacho’s life was defined by her devotion as a mother. The sudden tragedy has left her five children and extended family facing an unimaginable loss. A verified fundraiser has been established by friends to support the family with immediate needs and future expenses, a testament to the network of care she built throughout her life.
Zulma Camacho’s story is a poignant reminder of the deep, personal connections forged in local businesses. As the Delray Beach community prepares to say goodbye, her legacy lives on in the memories of a generous smile, a listening ear, and the vibrant spirit of a woman who made everyone feel like family.