Zaida Lee Hastings

Zaida Lee Hastings (Smith), age 86, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, surrounded by family. Born on August 22, 1939, in Scottsboro, Alabama to Otto and Ollie (McClendon) Smith, Zaida was a cherished member of her community and a beacon of love and care to her family.

Zaida graduated from Hewitt Trussville High School and attended Florence State University. During that time, she met Jerry Hastings, they fell in love then married September 10, 1958. Zaida was a loving wife, devoted mother, and doting grandmother who cherished her role in her family's life. She dedicated her life to creating a loving, nurturing home for her family and took pride in managing her family and household, running a tight ship while her husband Jerry worked long hours. She will always be remembered for her big smile and a quirky sense of humor. One of her greatest joys in life was her role as a grandparent. She treasured her time with her grandkids and loved being their "HawTaw".

Zaida loved reading, tackling word games, and playing cards with her family and friends. She also enjoyed traveling, whether it be the North Georgia mountains, the Alabama coast, or Cuba.

She is survived by her daughter, Johanna Watkins; son, Walter (Christy) Hastings; five grandchildren, Jeremy, Joshua, and Sara Grace Hastings, Ryan Fuller, and Taylor Watkins; sister, Sharon Dillahunty; and brother, Brooks Smith.

Zaida was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Jerry Hastings, parents, Otto and Ollie Smith; and sister, Sandra Spurling.

Visitation for Zaida will be held from 11 am to 1 pm on March 2, 2026, at Valhalla Funeral Home, 698 Winchester Rd., Huntsville, Alabama, where a committal service will follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital or the American Cancer Society in her memory.