Mary Ann Van Zandt

Mary Ann Van Zandt, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, departed this world on September 11, 2025, in Waco, Texas, at the age of 89. Born on January 17, 1936, in Waco, Mary Ann lived a life filled with love, joy, and a deep commitment to her family and her community.

A proud graduate of Connally High School, where she shone as a cheerleader and an all-state basketball guard, Mary Ann was a true athlete at heart, even earning the title of Mrs. Connally. Her spirit and zest for life made her a driving force in the lives of those around her. She embraced the role of a stay-at-home mother with unparalleled passion, she also had the privledge of keeping her grandchildren before they began school. After her grandchildren began their educational years, she had a dedicated career of 19 years at Sherwin Williams. 

Mary Ann's personality was a perfect blend of fun and love. She was the most caring mother, and her grandchildren were the light of her life. She was known for her warmth and kindness, often seen as a pillar of strength within her family. She took pride in running an after-school daycare in Lorena, touching the lives of many children in her community. Her nurturing spirit also shone through in her involvement in coaching and starting the Little Dribblers in Lorena, as well as participating in the Lorena Deb's ladies softball league, where her teams frequently triumphed against neighboring communities.

A dedicated member of the First Baptist Church of Lorena, Mary Ann forged deep connections that spanned generations. Her interests were as vibrant as her personality; she enjoyed Lady Bears basketball, Dallas Cowboys football, and relished every adventure with her family. A lover of the Texas coast, she was always ready to go, filling each trip with laughter and unforgettable memories. 

Mary Ann also had a deep love of music. She cherished attending concerts all over Texas, and even Las Vegas and Bossier, and often gathered her sons and grandsons to listen to music together, filling her home with rhythm, joy, and togetherness.

Mary Ann is survived by her loving children, Bobby Musick and wife Becky, Mike Van Zandt and wife Sandra, and Mikki Holman and husband David. Her legacy continues through her adored grandchildren: Bradley Van Zandt, Wayne Musick and wife Bekah, Anna Tarver and husband Brian, Kellie Van Zandt, and Ashley Avellaneda and husband Amancio. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Eva Tarver, Wendall Tarver, Silas Tarver, Aydan Avellaneda, and Aviana Avellaneda. Additionally, she is survived by her brother Donald Strahan and wife Lee, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Eva and O.C. Strahan; her beloved husband, Nelson Ray Van Zandt; her son, Mark Alan Van Zandt, Sr.; her grandson, Mark Alan Van Zandt, Jr.; and her siblings, Barnell Strahan, Ruth Strahan Smiley, Buddy Strahan, Billy Strahan, and Bob Strahan.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life with a visitation on September 19, 2025, from 6 PM to 8 PM at Grace Gardens Funeral Home & Crematorium in Woodway, Texas. A funeral service will be held the following day, September 20, at 10 AM, with an interment to follow at Rosenthal Cemetery at 11:30 AM.

Mary Ann Van Zandt’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, laughter, and compassion. Her graceful spirit, unwavering devotion, and endless love will continue to inspire her family and friends for years to come.