Jimmy O. Zeigler

Jimmy Oliver Zeigler was born in Sylvania, Georgia, on May 28, 1947 to Oliver Zeigler and Dorothy Jackson Zeigler. Jimmy was the oldest of eleven children, and was not only a brother, but also a father figure, to his siblings Johnny (Theta), Charles, Yulonda (Rayfield), LaRose, Carolyn (Jerome), Linda Gail (Larry), Llewellyn (deceased), Dennis (Latasha), Angela (Norman) and Jacqueline (Tony). He received his early education in Sylvania, Georgia before moving to Highland Park, Michigan with his Aunt Eliza to attend Highland Park High School. Jimmy enjoyed reading and ran track in High School. He gave his life to Christ at an early age and taught biblical studies. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served for eight years as a Communications Specialist as well as a sharpshooter, receiving numerous awards and honors. While serving in the Air Force, Jimmy married his high school sweetheart, Arthuretta Kirkland, whom he fondly called Retta. After being honorably discharged from the military, Jimmy moved his family to Maryland, where he purchased the home he and Retta shared for the last forty-four years of his life. Jimmy worked as a telecommunications engineer for Amtrak, then MCI, and ultimately for the United States Postal Service until his retirement. Jimmy’s hobbies included keeping the yard “looking good,” playing pool, playing cards and listening to loud music. He also liked to collect things, particularly coins. Most of all, he loved to fish with his sons, and especially his grandsons who all inherited his love for the sport. Jimmy had a passion for family and prided himself on being there when others needed him. Countless people came to him for help, and though he may have grumbled about it, he was always there for family and friends in times of need. One of his favorite things to do was to research the history of the Zeigler family and share stories of our heritage. On the morning of Wednesday, February 24th, Jimmy peacefully departed this life surrounded by his loving family. He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife of 51 years and sweetheart since age 16, Retta; sons Jimmy Oliver Zeigler II, Jeffrey Owen Zeigler (Kenya), Jason Omar Zeigler (Jana); eight beautiful grandchildren, Jason Oliver Zeigler, Noah Elijah Zeigler, Owen Christopher Zeigler, Tyler Rianne Zeigler, Ella Marie Zeigler, Abigail Lynn Zeigler, Isaiah Cole Zeigler and Maya Quinn Zeigler; and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws and extended family.

Tributes

Jimmy O. Zeigler

May 28, 1947 - February 24, 2021