Dear John,

“You never would have heard of Zig Ziglar if it hadn’t been for the Redhead.” Zig Ziglar

My dad said that about my mom, Jean Abernathy Ziglar.Mom joined Dad in heaven Friday, July 27, 2018. I can only imagine the hugs that Mom gave as she greeted Dad, my sister Suzie, her great-granddaughter Phoebe, and so many others.

Dad called Mom the “happy hugger.” Dad said, “If it was moving, the Redhead would stop it and hug it. If it wasn’t moving, she would dust if off and sell it.” It’s a funny line for sure, but it was true.

I can share so much about Mom, but I am going to limit this message to three things that embodied everything about her.

• Jesus
• Dad
• The person in front of her

Jesus - Mom wanted everyone to know about her Lord and Savior, Jesus. She had a way about her that made it perfectly normal for her to give a hug to a total stranger and ask them where they went to church. Many times, 30 seconds later, they were invited to church with Mom and Dad, and they would respond with a big “yes.” Why was it so easy and natural for Mom to do this? Simple, she had so much of God’s love in her she had to give it away, and when you share God’s love, people want more.

Dad - Mom believed in Dad before Dad believed in himself. Mom saw Dad’s heart, his potential, and the person he was becoming before Dad became that person. She cleared the way and did all of the little things that allowed Dad to be totally focused on fulfilling his purpose. Mom and Dad had many setbacks along the way, and the road was not easy, but never once did they doubt each other. Nothing gives a man more confidence than a wife that believes in him and respects him.

The person in front of her - Mom was never focused on “what’s next.” Mom was always focused on “Who now.” This is such a simple and powerful concept. Mom was always fully present with the people she was with. She had a way of looking in your eyes, hugging you tight, and saying just the right thing. It didn’t matter if it was the first time you met her, or if your had known her your whole life.

Today, in honor of Mom, simply hug someone extra tight and be fully present with them. It seems legacies are built one love-filled hug at a time.

Tom Ziglar

The Proud Son of the Redhead

P.S. There is a beautiful short video of Mom in Dad’s own words right here. If you have a memory or a message you want to leave, please leave it on the Facebook page for the world to see.