Zannie Efird

Zannie Poplin Efird, known to many as Zannie, passed away on August 24, 2023, in Raleigh, NC at the age of 81. She was born on February 22, 1942, in Albemarle, NC. Zannie was a beloved member of her community, leaving behind a lasting impact on those she encountered throughout her life.

Zannie was a high school teacher, dedicating herself to shaping young minds for over three decades. She began her career at Millbrook High School from 1964 to 1980, and then continued at Enloe High School from 1980 to 1997. Zannie's passion for education was evident in her role as the Science Department Head Chairperson and her recognition as Wake County Teacher of the Year.

Her lively wit, warm spirit, and caring nature endeared her to many. Zannie had a unique ability to connect with her students, inspiring them to embrace learning and have fun in the process. One of her students aptly described her impact, saying, "Something about her just made us want to stop, listen, learn, and have fun while doing so." Zannie's dedication to teaching touched countless lives and will be remembered fondly.

Zannie's interests extended beyond the classroom. She was an active member of New Hope Baptist Church in Raleigh for over 50 years, serving in various roles such as keeping bed babies in the nursery on Sunday mornings and faithfully cooking for Keenagers. Zannie's commitment to her faith and her church community brought her great joy and fulfillment.

In her free time, Zannie enjoyed attending church, cooking, and sharing her homemade peanut brittle and cheesecake. She cherished her Friday lunch bunch with the ladies and delighted in watching her granddaughter, Brooke, excel in competitive swimming. Zannie also had a special love for dogs and warmly welcomed the many furry rescue visitors her family brought through her home. She loved traveling on day trips with her family, always on the lookout for new places to try different foods.

Zannie will be deeply missed by her loved ones. She is survived by her daughter, Shannon Efird Adkins, and granddaughter, Brooke Langdon Adkins. She is also survived by her brother, Ritchie Poplin (Wanda), and brother-in-law, Roger (Ann) Efird, as well as multiple nieces and nephews.

Zannie is preceded in death by her husband, Wilbur Maurice Efird, and her parents, Thomas Woodrow Poplin and Gladys Edna Poplin.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 1, 2023, from 5-8pm at Brown Wynne Funeral Home, located at 1701 E Millbrook Rd, Raleigh. A Memorial Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, September 2, 2023,10am, at New Hope Baptist Church, located at 4301 Louisburg Rd, Raleigh. A graveside service will follow at Pine Forest Memorial Gardens, 770 Stadium Drive, Wake Forest, NC 27587.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to New Hope Baptist Church or Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation. Donations to New Hope Baptist Church can be sent to 4301 Louisburg Rd, Raleigh, NC 27604, and contributions to Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation can be made to PO Box 171, Holly Springs, NC 27540.

Zannie Poplin Efird will be remembered for her unwavering passion for teaching, her kind and caring nature, and her commitment to her faith and community. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all those she touched.

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