Denice Meyer
My parents and I were longtime members of McGraft Memorial Congregational Church on 1617 Palmer which was across from where Zona lived for many years with her husband and children. Her husband's parents used to keep an eye on the church & help care for McGraft for many years. I remember my parents talking & meeting with them, as my parents also lived in the Pinchtown neighborhood and got involved with the church, also. My Dad, Max Aley, was the oldest person living in Pinchtown & lived there the longest, passing at age 97 in 2009. Zona & I had children attending Nims School. Zona's daughter was friends with my daughters. Zona & I joined the PTA & I was the popcorn lady. When Zona ran for President, she had stiff competition with a man who wanted the title of President to make his resume look better for an upcoming political election. Zona was running because she was truly concerned about Nims children. I was Zona's biggest fan & helped elect her. I truly believed in her & supported her wishes. I can still see Zona smiling her genuine smile. Zona possessd a shy virgin like innocence in her demeanor. I felt she had a heart of gold. She was blessed in life with her sister in law Sandy, another beautiful soul that's passed. In the road of life, take time to listen to others & meld friendships. Life is fleeting. Glad I knew Zona.
