Youmna Zouhary

Youmna Yummy or Mama Z and Sito to her grandchildren lived a long life, blessed in many ways. Her years never ask or tell a ladys age were not so important as the love she gave and received. Youmna grew up literally on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea in Lebanon, lost her father at a young age, and was raised by her dear mother and older siblings. At the end of World War II, she welcomed American soldiers on the beach at Tripoli, and later traveled to America by way of Ellis Island to visit a brother and sister who had settled in Michigan and West Virginia. On that visit, Youmna met and married Paul from Toledo, and she became an American citizen. The next chapter in her life began as a wife and a mother. She assimilated to a new country while preserving and passing on her rich heritage to her children, Rosemarie Tom Deschler of Dublin, Jack Kathleen Zouhary of Sylvania and Elizabeth Mike Messenger of Perrysburg. Youmna volunteered at school and church with PTA, Scouts, Mothers Club, and supported the many activities and education of her children. She remained very close to her nieces and nephews a contemporary to some, second mother to others. Youmna was a hit in the neighborhood, as her door was always open with Lebanese food and her famous pastries at the ready. In addition to being a great hostess, she was an excellent bridge player. She made friends wherever she went. After her children left home, Youmna embarked on her new career. She joined the outside workforce as a sales associate at Jacobsons when the chain opened its Toledo store at Franklin Park. Youmna had an eye for fashion and a loyal following, both with customers and coworkers who, years after she retired, would see her at Sautters or the Stranahan and remember her pleasant service and hard work. Youmna adored and was beloved by her six grandchildren: Jason Brittany, Katie Marie Jonathan, Alexis, Mallory, Stephanie and Camille. She was recently blessed with a greatgrandchild Savannah. Youmna, ever present in the lives of her grandchildren, watched first steps and stage performances, attended tennis and soccer matches, and delighted in graduations and weddings. Every Sunday, Sito hosted the family for dinner. She passed along much wit and wisdom to her treasured grandchildren, who, in turn, brought out Youmnas sweet smile sometimes a pointed finger softened with her cute accent, a roll of the eyes, or a knowing wink. Youmna had a tremendous love of family and will be terribly missed. However, she gave her family and friends decades of memories and life lessons that will keep her remembered. While reluctant to let her go, the family takes comfort in the reunion at heavens table with Paul, siblings, relatives and dear friends, complete with joyous clatter, conversation, and cards being dealt. Our mother and Sito will continue to hold a prominent place at our table too Sundays and always. Visitation will be at Walker Funeral Home on Sylvania Avenue near Corey Road on Friday, March 15 from 4 to 8 PM, with Trisagion prayers at 7:30 PM. Services will be held at 11 AM on Saturday for close friends and family at St. Elias Church on Harroun Road in Sylvania. Burial is private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the St. Elias Endowment Fund or a charity benefitting children.