Jean leaves behind her college sweetheart and loving husband of 59 years, Alfred M. Zyga, of the home.
She is survived by her daughter, Jeanne Jo (Zyga) Ball, Salisbury, NC, and son-in-law Gregory P. Ball; and her adored grandson and "only boy", Marshall V. Ball ( Appalachian State University, Boone, NC); her only sister, Dorothy (Warner Shook) Murray (Towanda); special niece, Alana (Warner) Dewey and husband Walt (Troy); special nephew, Gary Warner and wife Lenora "Nori" (Haflett) ( East Smithfield), and several other dear great nieces and nephews from that area.
Jean graduated from Troy Area High School and Mansfield University with a B.S. in Education and completed her Master's Degree in Education at Elmira College. She had but one employer, Sayre Area High School, where she worked for 31 years teaching English. The number of students she touched is countless.
While enjoying her 25 year retirement in North Carolina she spent many hours reading, going to the beach and playing Mahjong with friends. Mostly she doted on her only grandson. Her memberships include St. Brendan's Catholic Church, the Bricklanding Women's Club and Book Club, and Coastal Garden Club.
A private graveside service for family and close friends will be held at a later date at the Glenwood Cemetery in Troy.
Local arrangements are being handled by Brunswick Funeral Service in Shallotte, NC.
The family would like to thank the caring staff of Liberty Homecare and Hospice Services (Supply, NC).
The family asks that you consider remembering Jean and her lifelong love of learning and reading by sending a memorial to her hometown library, the Allen F. Pierce Free Library, 34 Fenner Ave., Troy, PA, 16947.
A personal request by her daughter is to ask that you might plant a living memorial in her memory that will bloom in years to come so that you will think of her often.
Online condolences can be made at www.brunswickfuneralservice.com