ZAHARA, Joyce

1941 – 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Joyce Elaine Zahara (née Student) on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in Red Deer, Alberta at the age of 84 years old. Joyce was born on January 31, 1941, in Sexsmith, Alberta. She was the eldest of two children of Bill and Helen Student of Buffalo Lake near Sexsmith, Alberta. In July of 1966, Joyce married Frank Zahara, and together they built a life on a farm near Rycroft, Alberta. Joyce and Frank moved to a ranch near Caroline in Central Alberta in 2000. Joyce then moved to Red Deer after her husband of 49 years Frank passed away in April of 2016. Joyce attended high school in Sexsmith and then pursued her education at the University of Alberta, where she trained to become a school teacher. She dedicated 30 years of her life to teaching in the Peace River area, shaping countless young minds and leaving a lasting impact on her community. Joyce enjoyed curling and was an enthusiastic Toronto Blue Jays fan. She loved reading books, tending to her large gardens and flower beds, and sharing her passion for nature, pets and learning with those around her. Joyce will be remembered for her great smile, her kindness, and her unwavering dedication to family and friends. Joyce’s family would like to thank the caring staff of Victoria Park and Bethany CollegeSide for their great contribution to her life since 2016. Joyce will be lovingly remembered by her sons, Chris (Karen) and Roger (Cheryl); her grandchildren, Nasha (Trent), Derrick (Kristen), Nicole (Trevor), and Zachary; and her great-grandchildren, Jacob, Katie, Emma, Angus, Hadlee, and Madynn. She will also be sadly missed by her brother, Gerald (Karen); as well as numerous family members and dear friends. Cremation entrusted to Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, Red Deer, Alberta. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

ONLY LOCALLY FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER

“Caring Community Compassion Since 1999”

6287 – 67A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

• Date : 2025-11-23
• Location : (Red Deer) LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED (Red Deer/Blackfalds/Eckville) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & (Innisfail/Olds/Didsbury/Sundre) www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com