Born in Lynchburg on May 13, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Walter Leo Marsh and Nannie Edith Roach Marsh. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Don Colinger, Sr., and her brother, Walter L. Marsh, Jr.
Zelda is survived by her devoted children, Robert D. “Bob” Colinger, Jr. and wife Becky and Roberta Catherine Colinger; her cherished grandchildren, Rebekah C. Nelson and husband Benjamin, Ryan Colinger and wife Evelyn, and Natasha Poole and husband Patrick; her adored great-grandchildren, Parker Nelson, Drew Nelson, Wyatt Colinger, and Sloane Colinger; and her beloved sister-in-law, Karla Marsh.
Throughout her life, Zelda embodied strength, determination, and grace. Though she enjoyed a career as a real estate agent, her greatest calling was her family. She was a tenacious and resourceful mother who created a loving and stable home, always finding a way to provide, nurture, and guide her children with unwavering devotion. Her resilience and ingenuity were matched only by her deep love for those she held dear.
Music was the heartbeat of Zelda’s life. She had a gift for both teaching and performing, sharing her talents with joy and passion. Whether instructing others or lifting her voice in song, she found fulfillment in music’s ability to inspire and connect. For many years, she was a faithful member of the church choir, where her voice became a familiar and cherished presence in worship.
Zelda was also known for her keen sense of style and her vibrant spirit. She carried herself with confidence and warmth, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her. Above all, she treasured her family, finding her greatest happiness in their lives and accomplishments.
A woman of deep faith, Zelda was a member of Thomas Road Baptist Church, where she remained committed to her Lord and her church community throughout her life.
A memorial service celebrating her life and faith will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Thomas Road Baptist Church, Pate Chapel, with Pastor Jonathan Falwell officiating.
The family requests, in honor of Zelda, please ware something with purple.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the Thomas Road Baptist Church Benevolence Fund, www.trbc.org.
Zelda will be remembered for her unwavering love, her musical spirit, and the strength with which she lived her life, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and enduring devotion.
