Zara Cantey Grace

Zara Cantey Grace, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully in her home on May 2, 2022, the day after her 105th birthday. Zara was the last surviving child of the late Harry and “Ruthie” Cantey. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Thaddeus Grace (with whom she is surely dancing with now), eight siblings, three nephews and a niece.

As a single parent who lost her husband in World War II, this fierce and fearless woman traveled to New York City and graduated from the New York School of Modern Photography, returning to Montgomery to work as an assistant to photographer Stanley Paulger. Later she accepted a position at South Central Bell from which she retired after a successful 32-year career. But perhaps her greatest life’s work was the way that she cared for all of those in her life who depended on her for her strength, quick wit, grace, love and abundant generosity.

Zara was known by many names - ZaZa, Tiny, Nany and Alice Haigler to name a few - but perhaps none more important to her than “Mother” to her only and “favorite” daughter. She adored nature, her dogs, music, reading her bible, and always woke up with a smile, saying, “I have a bird on my shoulder and a song in my heart.” She delighted people with her ability to recite poetry and always pulled for her beloved Red Sox and Crimson Tide. She was a faithful and active member of Whitfield United Methodist and a dedicated servant of the Samaritan’s Purse Shoebox Ministry.

Zara is survived by her deeply devoted daughter and son-in-law, Ramona and Richard Pirsig, granddaughters Zara Cameron Pirsig and Ashley Pirsig Shields (Alex), brother-in-law, George Grace, and many cherished nieces and nephews. The family extends their deepest gratitude to Susan, Jackie and Elaine - the trio of angels who cared for her and her family with such love in her final days.

Visitation will be held May 15th at 1:00 PM at Hopewell Methodist Church (Shopton), followed by a celebration of her life at 2:00 PM. Graveside services with family only will follow at the Christopher Tompkins Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to Samaritan’s Purse or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be shared at: www.Leak-MC.com