Carolyn Zaiontz Fitzgerald

Carolyn died in Hospice Care following a battle with Mycobacterium Abscessus a serious, often severe, bacterial lung infection, which is extremely difficult to treat.

This lung condition left her with fatigue and weakness for several months, leaving her completely homebound. Many days she could barely take a few steps, before having to sit down. Her weight plummeted to 69 pounds. Her husband, Ray, remained her sole caretaker throughout the ordeal, never complaining.

Carolyn was born in Falls City, TX with the family moving to San Antonio in 1951. She attended St. Leo's Catholic Elementary School and graduated high school from Blessed Sacrament Academy.

Being part of a close-knit family, with two exceptional parents, she enjoyed a wonderful (but busy) childhood, as the oldest of five siblings. She devoted a good portion of her time, both after school each day and on weekends, to the care of her youngest siblings, almost 14 years her junior. She also had regular neighborhood babysitting jobs.

Her first employer was Texas Rehabilitation Commission, where she worked for 14 years, before her position was eliminated statewide. She then began employment with Southwestern Bell Telephone in 1978 and continued until September 2001 when she accepted an early retirement package to care for both parents. Through both employers, she met and worked with many wonderful people, remaining friends with many throughout the years.

Carolyn is preceded in death by both parents, Chester and Elizabeth Zaiontz, and one younger brother, Chester, Jr. She is survived by her loving husband, A. Ray Fitzgerald of 48 years; her younger siblings, Jeanne Zaiontz, Dan Zaiontz (Paula), and Michael Zaiontz (Greta); two nieces, Stacey Peterson (Brandon) and Kelley Zaiontz; one great-nephew, Brayden Peterson and one great-niece Lindsey Peterson; two aunts and many cousins. On her husband's side, she is survived by her husband's sister Jo Ann Eastman, stepsons Michael Fitzgerald (Felicia), David Fitzgerald, and Kevin Fitzgerald (Pam); step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

Carolyn's body will be cremated through the services of Porter Loring North Mortuaries. There will be no form of memorial service.