Judith Ann (Webb) Zinszer
January 21, 1943- November 3, 2025
Judy Zinszer, a beloved educator, avid traveler, entrepreneur, and devoted mother, passed away recently. Born on January 21, 1943, she lived a life defined by vibrant energy, deep curiosity, and a passion for connection.
Judy’s love for language was a guiding force throughout her life. She graduated from Hanover College in 1965, where she was a member of the Phi Mu sorority and met her husband, Kendall. She went on to become a cherished French and Spanish teacher for more than 30 years, sharing her linguistic gifts with generations of students.
For Judy, language was never just about grammar. It was a bridge to new worlds and new people. Her passion extended far beyond the classroom, fostering deep, lifelong friendships with dear friends from France, Mexico, and Spain, countries where she had also studied. She embraced these cultures completely, infusing her life with their spirit.
This same spirit of global curiosity fueled her second career as the proud owner of Zinszer's Bakery for three decades. The bakery was more than a business; it was a map of her adventures. A keen traveler, Judy explored the world, meticulously collecting and creating new international cookie recipes to bring back to her community.
Judy also had a profound love for the water. It was a source of joy and constant motion in her life. She swam almost every day, and for much of her adult life, she taught water aerobics. Her class was more than just exercise. It became a tight-knit group of friends who affectionately called themselves “The Mermaids,” a testament to the special community she built wherever she went.
She was also a long-time member of Tri Kappa and deeply valued the people and mission of the Anderson chapter.
Her love for people and culture extended to her pets. Judy fondly referred to her home as the “Zinszer Zoo” and had her Macaw parrot, Popeye, for more than 30 years. Her passion for cats began early, and she especially loved long-haired Persians. In middle age, she found a deep love for puppies as well. She was an all-around animal lover and rescuer, serving on the Board of Directors of the Madison County Humane Society for many years.
While she was known to many as a teacher and baker, her greatest role was that of loving mother and wife. She is survived by her devoted husband, Kendall, her love and traveling companion for life; her children, Kristofer Zinszer (Katherine) and Monica Hickman (Scott); her grandchildren, Kendall Hickman and Chase Hickman; her sister, Arlene Ellingwood (Ralph); her brother-in-law, Kim Zinszer; and countless friends, former students, and loyal customers who were all touched by her remarkable spirit. She will be deeply missed.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 2pm at Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service. Visitation will preceded the memorial service from 12 noon until the service at 2pm.
Burial will take place on Friday, December 12, 2025 at Anderson Memorial Park at 2 pm.
Memorial contributions may be given to Zinszer Scholarship at Hanover College, 517 Ball Drive, Hanover, IN 47243 or the Madison County Humane Society.
Online condolences may be made at www.rozelle-johnson.com