Ozora Marie McCarthy

Zoe lived a life devoted to art, education, faith, and family. A gifted and passionate artist, she was a founding member of the Ann Arbor Art Fair, where she proudly maintained a booth for many years. Her artistic talents flourished through watercolor, acrylic, and landscape painting, and she found great joy in sharing her beautiful works with her beloved family members and friends.

Education was another important calling in Zoe’s life. She earned her education degree from Bowling Green State University and began her career teaching elementary education. She later taught special education at Pioneer High School for many years, where she touched the lives of countless students with patience, kindness, and compassion. Never one to stop learning, Zoe returned to school and earned her art degree from the University of Michigan, further deepening her lifelong dedication to creativity.

Zoe had a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world, which inspired much of her artwork. She loved traveling throughout Europe, enjoyed cruising, and treasured time spent at her cottage up north, where she felt closest to nature. In her younger years, she also shared her artistic gifts by designing the annual Christmas card for the Disabled.

Her faith remained a guiding force throughout her life. Zoe was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor for over 40 years, where she found comfort, fellowship, and community.

Zoe is survived by her children, Timothy, Kelly, and Bonnie; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved partner, John Gannon; and her son, Michael McCarthy.

Zoe will be remembered for her gentle spirit, artistic soul, dedication to education, and the love she shared so freely with those around her.

A memorial service for Zoe will be held on Friday, June 12th at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor, 1432 Washtenaw Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104. Following the service, her ashes will be placed in the church’s Memorial Garden. Light refreshments will follow the burial.

Donations in Zoe’s memory may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor. Online gifts may be made at www.fpca2.org/give. Checks may also be mailed directly to: First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washtenaw Ave. Ann Arbor, MI 48104.