Zoe Ann Smith

Zoe Ann Smith, age 85, of Shafter, passed away peacefully at home on Feb. 3, 2024.

She was born in Shafter on July 18, 1938 to Willard and Helen (Ratzlaff) Janzen. Her parents were farmers, and later owned and operated a car wash in Fresno.

Zoe Ann graduated from Wasco High School in 1955 and studied music at the Pacific Bible Institute (now Fresno Pacific University). She was a talented pianist and singer, and also performed in community musical productions.

She married Jack Groves in 1958. Zoe Ann and Jack attended Wasco High School together. They adopted their son Kevin in 1963, and their son Jeff was born in 1964. She and Jack both went on to remarry.

Zoe Ann married Bob Smith in 1982, forming a blended family. Bob was the coach of Kevin's and Jeff's swim team at Shafter High School.

She worked for approximately 30 years as a pharmacy tech at Stringham's Shafter Drug. She also served for many years as a dedicated volunteer in different aspects of the Junior Miss program. She was the talent coordinator for the Shafter pageant, a judge at regional pageants, and was involved in ticket sales.

Zoe Ann was a member of the Shafter Mennonite Brethren Church since childhood. She enjoyed spending vacation time at Huntington Lake, Sequoia National Park and the Central Coast. Road trips to family reunions were also special to her.

Zoe Ann is survived by her sons Kevin (Greg Humpa) and Jeff Groves; stepchildren Bryan Smith (Cathy McNair) and Nita Crist (Marc); grandchildren Josh Ayers, Christine Smith and Zackary Smith (Jacki Carrell); great-granddaughter Brenia Ayers; brothers John (Barbara Willems) and Delbert (Christa Hippe) Janzen; first husband, Jack; along with nieces and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents and her second husband, Bob.

The entire family of Zoe Ann Smith owes a debt of sincere gratitude to many of her friends for their care, love and presence during her final months – with special thanks to Pam Snyder, Donna and Jerry Ezell, Karen and Nancy Enns, and Arly Feil. The family is also thankful for the medical care provided by Hoffman Hospice.

Viewing will take place on Friday, Feb. 16 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Peters Funeral Home, 844 E. Lerdo Highway, Shafter. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 17, at 11 a.m. at Shafter Memorial Park, 18662 Santa Fe Way, followed by lunch at the Shafter Mennonite Brethren Church, 400 Kern St. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the church.