Rosemary Ellen Zava

Rosemary was born on October 1, 1949, in Orange, New Jersey, to Martha and Charles Zintel.

A devoted educator and passionate about library science, Rosemary earned her Bachelor of Science with Honors from Radford College in Radford, Virginia, after graduating from the School of Library Science. She married Michael Zava on December 14, 1969, at the War Memorial Chapel at VPI. Their union was one of deep love, mutual respect, and unwavering companionship, lasting for over five decades.

Rosemary devoted herself to the field of education, enriching the minds of young students for 25 years. She began her career as the librarian at Floyd Elementary School, where she served for 3 years, followed by 22 years at Buchanan Junior High School in Tampa, FL. Throughout her career, she inspired countless young minds with her enthusiasm for literature, learning, and creativity. As a proud member of the National Education Association (NEA), Rosemary believed in the power of education to transform lives, and her legacy will endure for generations to come.

Outside of her professional life, Rosemary was a woman of many passions. She found beauty in the world through painting, dancing, and photography. She was an accomplished calligrapher, a lover of creative memories, an avid traveler who relished exploring new places, and a patron of the arts through frequenting Broadway plays. Her heart was filled with love for her beloved West Highland Terriers (Westies), who brought joy and companionship into her life. Above all, Rosemary's greatest joy was her family. She treasured every moment spent with them, always offering support, love, and warmth.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Zava, and their daughter, Blythe Zava McDowell. Rosemary's kindness, creativity, and zest for life will be missed by all who knew her.

A visitation for Rosemary will be held Sunday, November 24, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. A funeral service will occur Sunday, November 24, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM with a reception to follow on Sunday, November 24, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, all at Serenity Funeral Home; 13401 Indian Rocks Road, Largo, FL 33774.