Barbara Jean (Higgins) Zavala

Barbara (Higgins) Zavala, 84, made her way to Heaven on September 14, 2026, in Overland Park, Kansas, with her loving family by her side. Barbara was born on October 24, 1941, in Emporia, Kansas, to Warren J. Higgins and Dorothy R. (Haire) Higgins. She was the oldest of six siblings and attended Turner High School in Kansas City, Kansas. Barbara's greatest accomplishment and greatest joy in life was her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and she was incredibly proud of the family she built. She was blessed with five children: Randy Ussery, Charles Ussery, Jeannie Parise, Janice Scott and Christina Rodriguez; 15 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren. Barbara loved life and, most of all, she loved her family. She would proudly brag about her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to anyone who would listen. There was never any doubt how proud she was of each of them. Her family meant everything to her, and she cherished every opportunity to spend time with the people she loved. Barbara had a kind and gentle heart. She was known for being kind, caring, strong, brave, resilient, selfless and, of course, a little bit spunky. She was always willing to help others in any way she could and often put the needs of others before her own. She had a special way of making people feel cared for and loved, and her presence brought comfort and joy to those around her. She enjoyed the simple things in life and loved spending time with family and friends. Some of her favorite pastimes included working in her flower garden, playing BINGO, playing cards, creating diamond art and drawing. She especially loved watching her Kansas City Royals. Cheering on the Royals was one of her favorite things, and she could often be found enjoying a game and following her team. Barbara's life was filled with love, family, memories and countless moments that will be treasured forever. She leaves behind not only the family she was so proud of, but also a legacy of kindness, strength, resilience and unconditional love. The lessons she taught, the lives she touched and the love she gave will continue through her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren for generations to come. Barbara is survived by her children, Randy Ussery, Jeannie Parise, Janice Scott and Christina Rodriguez; 15 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; her siblings; and many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly. She was preceded in death by her son, Charles Ussery, who passed away on January 24, 2022, as well as her parents, Warren J. Higgins and Dorothy R. (Haire) Higgins. Barbara will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. While our hearts are broken by her passing, we are grateful for the many years, memories and love she gave us. We find comfort knowing that she is now at peace and has made her way home to Heaven. A visitation will be held from 1:30 to 2:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Maple Hill Funeral Home. In honor of Barbara’s love for the Kansas City Royals, family and friends are encouraged to wear Royals gear or blue to celebrate her. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Three Oaks Hospice.

Barbara Jean (Higgins) Zavala

October 24, 1941 - September 14, 2026