Elizabeth Marie Novak Zickafoose, 82, of Mooresville, N.C., passed away on January 14, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith and compassionate care for others.
She was born November 18, 1942, to Joe Michael Novak Sr. and Susie Danish Novak. After graduating, she attended secretarial school in Washington, D.C. Known for her strong spirit, refreshingly honest nature, and wonderfully witty sense of humor, Elizabeth lived her life with conviction and authenticity. Her deep Christian faith was central to who she was, and she found great joy in surrounding herself with angel figurines that reminded her of God’s presence in her daily life. Fiercely independent, she lived life on her own terms with grace and determination.
Elizabeth’s strong-willed nature and straightforward approach to life endeared her to many. Her strength of character and unwavering principles inspired those around her, and she was always ready to stand up for what was right and care for those in need.
Her faith was expressed through service to others, including cherished times spent with her sister, Mary Anne, making handmade pierogies for church charity events. For many years, she volunteered with Meals on Wheels, delivering food to homebound seniors and brightening their days with her trademark candid humor.
Elizabeth’s nurturing spirit extended to all who needed her most. A lifelong animal lover, she opened her heart and home to rescued cats from the streets, and for many years tended a garden that nourished both body and soul when family gathered at her table. Her life was marked by these acts of love and care for others, and her sacrificial love for her family was evident in everything she did.
She is survived by her children, Ray (Jerry) “Ziggy” Zickafoose Jr. and Charlene (Bruce) Zickafoose; her brother, John Novak; and her grandchildren, Chloe, Emil, Lex (Meggan), Parker, Gage, Reid, and Riley; her best friend, Kay Zickafoose. She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Earl Zickafoose Sr.; her sister, Mary Anne Kundra; her brother, Joseph Novak; her son, Joseph Zickafoose; and her daughter-in-law, Melissa Zickafoose.
A private family memorial service will be held Friday, January 17, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lake Norman Humane Society, 2106 Charlotte Hwy., Mooresville, NC 28117, in honor of Elizabeth’s lifelong dedication to caring for animals in need.
Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Zickafoose family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.