

Zana was born and raised in Fayetteville, NC. Growing up, Zana was a dedicated ballet dancer, track athlete, and cheerleader. After graduating from Terry Sanford High School, she attended Peace College for two years. She then transferred to UNC and graduated with a Bachelors degree in Political Science in 1979. Zana was always known for her fun-loving spirit, quick wit humor, and genuine compassion for others.
Zana worked in the banking industry and as an accountant. She had many roles volunteering in the community and was passionate about spending time helping others in need. One of her most beloved work-related responsibilities was working on a committee to choose soccer scholarship recipients. Anyone who knew Zana, knew how much pride she took in being a mother. Towards the end of her life, she maintained that her children, Kristen and Tyler, were her biggest accomplishments in life.
Zana spent every summer at the beach and was a self-proclaimed beach bum. Some of her fondest memories were spending long days on the beach with her family and friends. She enjoyed boat rides with her husband and was a great slalom water skier. Zana loved dogs and they adored her as well. She always cherished the special visits from her granddogs, Tucker and Sydney, especially during the toughest times throughout her battle. Zana enjoyed being in the kitchen, specifically cooking Lebanese family recipes and sharing stories about culture and family traditions. She was an outstanding entertainer and enjoyed hosting people in her home for special occasions. She and her husband enjoyed their “hockey date-nights” at the Carolina Hurricanes games for 8 years.
There is no doubt that her biggest claim to fame was her ability to dress. Her wardrobe was methodically maintained to have appropriate attire for every occasion. From head-to-toe, her outfits always matched perfectly and she looked “cute as a button.” She was never trendy, simply traditional, and always looked perfect. She absolutely missed her calling to be a personal stylist.
Her family’s favorite memories are skiing in Colorado every winter, boating on the intercostal waterway, dancing down the street in New Orleans, Luke Bryan concerts, and a beautiful anniversary trip to Hawaii.
Zana is survived by her parents, Jamale and Rajah Arab, devoted husband, Steve, loving son and daughter, Tyler and Kristen, brother, Alex Arab, and so many more family members and friends.
Visitation: 12:00-2:00 PM on Saturday, May 7 at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home on Millbrook Road & funeral service immediately to follow.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.BrownWynne.com
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