Juanita Zant

Juanita Joye Zant, age 90, of Odessa, TX went to be with the Lord in the early morning of December 6, 2021.  Memorial Service will be held on December 20, 2021, 10:00 AM at The Bridge Church located at 3901 E. Yukon in Odessa, TX with Reverend Donnie Williams.

Juanita was born in Joinerville, TX to Tommie and Lillian Gholson on October 21, 1931. She graduated from Odessa High School in 1949. She also attended Odessa College. She married Josiah Clifton Zant, Jr. on September 23, 1950, in Odessa, TX.

Passionate about the education of children, Juanita was a teacher at heart and taught kindergarten for 11 years at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.  She worked as a secretary in an accounting office until her retirement.

Nita was a faithful member of the Bridge Church and loved her church family. She was also a member of the Eastern Star, DZ Chapter of PEO for 60 years, Charter member and Chairperson for several committees at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church and served as president of the Methodist Women’s Group.

Nita helped at the ATA Martial Arts for 35 years and loved all the students. She was fondly known as “Mama Zant” to all the kids and adults alike. Her hobbies included reading, bible study, and volunteering for anyone needing help.

Juanita Zant is preceded in death by her parents, sisters Doris Teer and Reba Odom, husband Joe Zant, daughter Cathy Hoggard and husband Johnny Hoggard, son Jerry Zant, and granddaughter Amber Zant Bice.

Juanita Zant is survived by son Clif Zant and wife Lindsay, daughter Laura Zant, daughter-in-law Heidi Zant, grandchildren Jennifer Holloman and husband Jason, Michelle Brown and fiancé Kent Rivas, Michael Zant and wife Megan, David Zant and Kellie. Great grandchildren Zant Holloman, McCarly Holloman, Christian Brown, Marcus Brown, Lane Zant, Tripp Zant, Shepherd Zant, Murphy Zant, and KoKo Zant. She is also survived by Denise Chaney who she loved like a daughter, with her daughters, Marci Chaney and Laurie Longfellow along with grandchildren Xander and Sirena Faulk, and countless family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Bridge Church Children’s Ministry or to Amber Zant Bice Scholarship fund through UTPB. The family wishes to extend their appreciation for all the prayers and support during this difficult time.

Mom, Nita, Grandmother, Great Mother, and Mama Zant - We will greatly miss your love, laughter, prayers, and instructions!