It is with heavy hearts that the family of Zema E. Schaney, 74, of Butler, PA share the news of her passing after a brief illness on October 11, 2023. Zema was welcomed to heaven while surrounded by her beloved husband and children.
Zema was born November 3, 1948, in Utica, PA to the parents of Donald and Mary (McKinley) Miller and grew up with her sister, Kathy (Miller) Geib. She graduated from Franklin High School (class of 1966) and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (1970) along with a master’s degree from the University of North Dakota (1975).
The most joyful journey of her life began when she married her husband, George, on June 5, 1971. Together they celebrated their proudest accomplishments, their children: daughter Mary Kirsten Schaney and wife, Jill Chambers; son Jared Schaney (deceased) and daughter-in-law, Lisa; daughter Meghann Chapman and husband, Michael; daughter Jessica Kamerer and husband Joshua; and daughter Janine Briggs with husband, Michael. Her heart grew even more when her family was expanded to include her beautiful and cherished grandchildren: Clark and Oliver Schaney, Cayla and Dylan Chapman, and Alexander and Schaney Kamerer. Above all, Zema’s dedication was to her family and she took pride in how they always come together to “circle the wagons” with fierce strength and unwavering support during times of need.
Zema was also a beloved educator with Moniteau School District and her passion for teaching undoubtedly left an indelible mark on her students’ lives. Upon her retirement in 2009, she became a world traveler who deeply appreciated the beauty and wonders of God’s earth. When she was not traveling or enjoying her family, Zema also loved to share her warmth through her quilting, sewing, and other crafting. Her love was woven into every quilt and creation, all of which will stand as symbols of the tight-knit tapestry of her love.
Aside from her own children, she blessed the lives of countless others with her love and guidance. A dedicated and steadfast friend to so many, her loss will be greatly grieved. A member of many social circles, Zema stayed connected with many through her time spent with Girl Scouts, First English Lutheran Church, the Red Hat Society, fellow Moniteau retirees, and several quilting groups. Many hearts were enriched by her calming, strong, honest, and reassuring spirit. Whether one needed a confidant or a co-conspirator, her feisty dedication meant she would always be there for whatever was needed.
Zema will be remembered for the legacy of love, faith, friendship, knowledge, and creativity that she left behind in all the lives which she touched. Family and friends will be received on Monday, October 16, 2023, from 1-3 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Thompson-Miller Funeral Home, Inc. at 124 East North Street in Butler, PA 16001. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 17th at 11:00 am at First English Lutheran Church at 241 North Main Street in Butler, PA with Pastor Kimberly van Driel, officiating. Committal ceremony will immediately follow the service at South Side Cemetery in Butler.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to Lutherlyn at 500 Lutherlyn Lane, Butler, PA 16001.