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Zig Ziglar Obituary
Ziglar, who had been suffering from pneumonia, died Wednesday at a hospital in the Dallas suburb of Plano, said his personal assistant, Jay Hellwig.
With an aim at helping people achieve success in their careers and personal lives, in addition to a focus on Christianity, Ziglar was a prolific speaker who appeared at events alongside world leaders including several U.S. presidents and former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
"Mr. Ziglar was the same guy behind the closed doors as he was preparing for his presentations to thousands of people that he was when we were sitting at the kitchen table and he was reading the newspaper," Hellwig said.
Ziglar started his fulltime career in motivational speaking when he was in his 40s. His first book, "See You at the Top," was published in 1975, when he was 49 .
"He got saved at the age of 42, which means that he accepted Jesus Christ as his savior," Hellwig said. "Ever since that day is what he said was the turning point of his life. The last 41 years of his life he lived fully with that as his mission."
"He also had the uncanny ability to make everyone he ran into feel like they were his friend," Hellwig said.
Ziglar was a World War II veteran who grew up in Yazoo City, Miss., and then went to work in sales for a series of companies, where his interest in motivational speaking grew, according to his Plano-based company's website. Hellwig said Ziglar moved to Dallas in the late 1960s.
Ziglar's company, which features more than a dozen speakers advocating the "Ziglar Way," offers motivation and performance training.
His book, "Confessions of a Grieving Christian," was written after the 1995 death of his oldest daughter, Suzan, at the age of 46.
After a 2007 fall down a flight of stairs left him w ith a brain injury, Ziglar, along with another daughter, Julie Ziglar Norman, wrote "Embrace the Struggle," a book that described how his life changed after the injury.
In addition to his daughter, Ziglar is survived by his wife Jean, with whom he celebrated 66 years of marriage on Monday; his son, Tom Ziglar; and daughter Cindy Oates.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
JAMIE STENGLE, Associated Press
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
231 Entries
Maxine Cockerill
July 12, 2024
I attended at least one of his shows in Tampa FL back in the early 80s. He was funny in his unique ways of giving encouragement to living life to the fullest with the redhead, as he always referred to his wife.
Hao Li
August 9, 2023
You are a mentor to me. You have spread truth and positivity into this world. I will make you proud! Forever grateful for all that you have done <3 Rest in peace brother
Wayne Pryor
May 6, 2023
Condolences from Wallaceburg, Ontario, Canada. This saids alot! Canada,I've never met him before! I'm a complete stranger. Yet here I am saying Thank you Sir you've made my life better!
Thomas Matthews
July 30, 2022
AYoung Black kid Life was changed Because of a angel Name Zig Zigler.
How you can show support
I am a Believer in Positive Thinking!
Patrick Francisco
January 14, 2020
Zig, I always appreciated a check up from the neck up' whenever I heard of you presenting. Your motivational skills were exemplary and I truly lived a higher functioning life because of your positive influence. Thank you!
Jack Stell
October 22, 2017
Zig Ziglar was the best speaker I have ever heard. He kept audiences spellbound with his powerful voice and enunciation skills. He used humor effectively and made his speeches both enjoyable and memorable. He kept audiences on the edge of their seats with his story telling skills. I was fortunate to have heard him speak several times and to have listened to many of his albums. I found his motivating and common sense words which to be invaluable in my first supervisory position. His first book, See You at the Top, was one of the best and most influential books I have ever read. I still go back and read this great book and listen to his CDs. I have recommended both his books and tapes to many people. I was fortunate enough to have attended his 3 day seminar in Dallas in the mid 1980's and his Sunday School class.
He left quite a legacy and good memories with the thousands of people he helped and continue to help with his books and CDs. I was fortunate enough to have met him and to have received his timeless advice. He was truly one of a kind and an inspiration to all he met. Thanks for all the help and motivation you provided to me and many others, and I hope to one day see you at the top. RIP
L
August 14, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
LEAVITT SANDERS
January 4, 2016
A man blessed by The Lord who encouraged and inspired millions He had a tremendous impact for the kingdom He will be greatly missed Leavitt Sanders
Richard Starke
January 14, 2015
I have just done the Sales Audio - What a MAN. Zig Ziglar a Genius in his own time. Thank you for the insight. Richard Starke South Africa
LES KENNETT
October 20, 2014
THE MAN WAS A GENIUS, AND HIS QUOTES WILL LIVE ON AS A GUIDING LIGHT FOR PEOPLE OF FAITH AND PEOPLE IN GENERAL. MAY HE REST IN PEACE AND HIS THOUGHS LIVE ON FOREVER.
Gregg G
May 8, 2014
If there ever was a person that had a truly profound impact on my life it was Zig Ziglar. I thank you and I thank God that i had the opportunity to have found this kind man with the message that you can achieve anything in life that you want regardless of circumstances. In other words always look for the positive in every situation. God bless Zig Ziglar and all who loved him. Gregg G. Lowell, Massachusetts
December 8, 2013
Ben B Buckland, Okla City
Thanks for the memories and the guidance since the mid 60's.
August 27, 2013
An inspirational man to millions. Thank you for your work in spreading Christianity and the power of positive thinking. Your words have had a profound impact on my my life.
TJ G
August 26, 2013
Wonderful to know this man via his work. See you, Mr. Ziglar, and that beautiful red-headed wife of yours on that Beautiful Shore! Thank You YHWH for such a blessing.
Mike S
August 1, 2013
It has been 8 Months since Zig passed and I just found out today. My Prayers go to the whole family, I feel like I know them all through his stories. Zig changed my way of thinking and I'm a better man for it. Godspeed, you were loved by many who never met you in person.
T Winston
July 19, 2013
Yes, I will see you at the top!
Until then, you will be greatly missed.
Denise Sutton
June 27, 2013
It is a time for the younger in Christ to rise to the top... We have lost so many Great of the Faith; Larry Burkett, Chuch Colson and now Zig Zigler... Our loss is great, but Christ has not left us alone...thru the Inspiring teaching of these great men, we press on, we are bruised but not crushed, Christ Jesus is preparing an Army of Christian warriors, worldwide, we will preserver and He HAS won !!! In Christ's Love and Truth >d<
Amy Renee Armstrong
June 15, 2013
God blessed Mr Zig Ziglar to be a blessing indeed;
I'm so thankful, grateful, for his legacy.
May God's best forever be yours, ARA
Priscilla Benson
June 8, 2013
Whenever I am down and feeling less than my best for a giant kick in the pants I head for Jesus first and then start digging for my books by Zig Zigler and my endless notes and promises to myself. Jesus gave me the gift of a living breathing candle in my times of darkness and helped me to see the pinhole of light that would begin to burst into the sunshine of another day filled with hope faith and belief in myself and my godgiven abiity to rise above any situation.To dream and ask the question HOW?
Jeremy M
February 13, 2013
To have changed the lives of so many for the better, is what you have done and will continue to do. I wanted for years to meet you in person, and hear you speak and inspire. . . until that day comes- Thanks!
Clarence Wolfe
January 25, 2013
See you at the TOP. Clarence Wolfe
Ken Robinson
January 15, 2013
When I was emotionally down, felt financially beaten and needed to make another sales call; Zig it was your words of wisdom I turned to and by reading several pages my spirit stood up on the inside and gave me the strength to make one more call. Zig I have always wanted to me you in person, as a born again Christian I look forward to meeting up one day and sharing with you the positive impact you had on my life!
Debbie H.
January 13, 2013
Zig, Full of Grace, full of enthusiasm, full of Christ's light. See you soon dear brother.
January 13, 2013
Zig, I will see you at the top. I hope my mansion is close to yours. Iloved your wisdom
Michael Pilling
January 12, 2013
You helped me through so many tough times, and now you help me to be a great partner and farther for my family x. Zig you will be missed but I will still hear you voice everyday
Mike C.
December 26, 2012
You will be missed Zig. I have you to thank for countless sales over the years. If it were not for your words, I may not have become a top producer and stuck with the same company for 10 years. Thank you for helping me fulfill my dreams.
Ken Mayo
December 12, 2012
Like many others around the world have said Zig was a motivational treasure for all of us in life and business. But the memory of Zig I will always treasure is standing in Zig and Jean's kitchen sharing coffee and cake with the Sunday School class Bible study and getting to know Zig the husband, father and everyday man. He was the real deal and my life is richer having known him. He truely is at the top now. You will truely be missed my brother in Christ. My love and condolences to his lovely Jean.
Art
December 10, 2012
What an Inspiration this man is to me, I say is, because I continue to listen to his CDs at every opportunity that I get. I only wish I could have met this man. God Bless
Lisa Barton
December 10, 2012
His book "See You At The Top" changed my life. Thank you Zig!!
Dax and Samantha Cowart
December 9, 2012
Zig Ziglar was and still is an inspiration to us and a fine example of a healthy man, husband and father
December 9, 2012
I was sad to hear of Zig's passing. Zig, you never knew the profound influence you had on my life. I know the day of your passing was a happy one for you. Waking to real life. Seeing friends and loved ones. Seeing your daughter again and being at home with our Lord. "See you at the top", my friend.
Rob Pettet, New Jersey
Evans
December 8, 2012
Condolences. Psalm 9:9,10
December 8, 2012
Dear Ziglar Family,
I so loved Zig's tapes and books as I sold advertising in the 80's. I will always remember him.
Roberta Sheffer, Sarasota Florida.
December 7, 2012
Zig, your book "See you at the Top" was a great inspiration. What a wonderful man you were. Now you are walking the streets of Glory. Well Done good and faithful servant.
Ann Grammer
December 6, 2012
Great man! Loved his work.
James B. Kenny
December 6, 2012
Thank you Mr. Ziglar, for helping me to discover , and more importantly , rememeber , that my Altitude is indeed controlled by my Attitude !
From one Salesman to another....
+ God bless you Mr. Ziglar ! AMDG
Dan Sloan
December 5, 2012
i am truly saddened to hear this I started listening to Mr. Ziglar at the age of 18 and took his many messages to heart. Now at the age of 52 I still am inspired by his words and works. The Sales World has lost a great trainer and even larger humanitarian... Zig you truly are seeing us from the top god bless and thank you.
Ginny Sharples
December 4, 2012
What a classy Sunday school teacher you were, Zig. Your positive thoughts will live on to inspire and motivate goodness.
mm
December 4, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
December 4, 2012
Our deepest ssympathy and heart prayers go out to the family. May the God who gives peace be with all of you..
Michele Behnken
December 3, 2012
I was so sad to hear about the passing of your loved one. Zig Ziglar changed my entire attitude which changed my life! After reading See You at the Top, I became much more aware of my approach to life and that I was in fact in control of my thoughts and actions. I wrote a paper on setting goals and having a positive attitude in college and later on it was shared with my co-workers. I still have it! I was truly inspired and loved his thinking. Thank you for sharing him with me and the world. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends. He has certainly left his mark in the world!!!
December 3, 2012
What a man of great integrity & wise words! My heartfelt sympathy to Zigs' loving family & friends...may God bless & comfort you all!
Wade Lindstrom
December 3, 2012
I loved this Man and will always remember how true he was to what he taught. To Tom and his sweet red head Jean, I am truly sorry to hear of his passing. I worked as one of his coaches and so loved every moment of it.
Wade
Kelly Couture
December 3, 2012
A great man of God, who left an amazing legacy has gone home to his Father. What a great reunion it must have been to see his daughter again!
John Cary
December 2, 2012
Mr. Zig Ziglar is and will always be a giant of a man.
Gary Holbrook
December 2, 2012
One of my life's greatest pleasures was getting to know Zig and to have worked at Zig Ziglar Corporation. My sincerest condolences to the family.
Alice Adkins
December 1, 2012
I never met Zig, but was an avid listener to his teachings. His messages instructed and challenged me, and they never failed to bring a smile and brighten my day. What a legacy he leaves behind!
My prayers go out to his wife and family..
Robert Springer
December 1, 2012
Nothing I could say now can take away the grief that you are feeling. I sat and listened and it was as if my own father had passed. I am who I am because I AM lives in me! I learned about him in part from Zig. Tom said "Nothing really happens until you take action." Tom, you have the ability to continue helping people take action! Please continue!
Jack Bullard
December 1, 2012
Before Zig began teaching Sunday School at Prestonwood, he taught the Auditorium Class at First Baptist Dallas. It was easily the largest class in the church and included people of all ages and stages of life. Zig was a great salesman who was especially good at telling people about Jesus!
When Zig left First Baptist, Dr. Charles McLaughlin took over his class, but we will never forget our very first Sunday School teacher.
Our condolences to Jean and the rest of the family.
Jack Bullard
Director, McLaughlin Bible Class, First Baptist Dallas
December 1, 2012
Sometimes we don't quite understand
the heighth and breadth of God's Infinite Plan.
But through all our tears and sorrow
we know Who holds tomorrow,
and it's all in our Master's Hand!
Zip, I didn't have the privilege of knowing you personally; only thru your books and tapes. The world loss is Heaven's gain!
Don Biggerstaff
Helen Crouch-Gamble
December 1, 2012
I am so truly sorry for your loss. Prayers are being sent for the entire family.
Gary Hammond
December 1, 2012
What a great man and impacter of lives! We will miss his always cheerful hellos!
Ashlin
November 30, 2012
What rejoicing must be going on in Heaven! How precious that he was here to celebrate his 65th anniversary with his beloved "Redhead".
My condolences to the family. How wonderful to join the Saints that went before....
Wanda Ferguson
November 30, 2012
Love you Zig. You were the very best of your kind and I'm sure you are dancing with Susan now. Wanda
Jay & I married on Nov. 26, 2006, Jean and Zig's 60th Wedding Anniversary because of their love & devotion that date had a proven track record.
November 30, 2012
Dear Zig, I know there is a huge celebration going on in Heaven due to your arrival there to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I'm sure God's angels are estatic that you are there now to help them further God's kingdom and cause of bringing more people to Christ. Thank you for being such an inspirational Sunday School teacher, friend and mentor and sharing God's Word and wisdom with us year after year. You will greatly be missed by us all! God Bless Jean and the rest of your family and friends!
We Love You & Jean,
Leslie & Jay Jones ( DFW, Texas )
mary
November 30, 2012
Your words were so inspirational to me when I started in the working world after high school. Thank you so very much for being "you"...
Sandy Lugo
November 30, 2012
May God continue to bless your work left here on Earth. I will keep motivating others because you have motivated me.
November 30, 2012
Mr Ziglar - It was an honor to meet and interview you for WFAA-TV several years ago. I have never forgotten your profound advice on HOPE!
Thank you for your leadership and inspiration.
- Jeff Brady, Dallas -
November 30, 2012
TO THE ZIGLAR'S (MATT.5:7)HAPPY ARE THE MERICIFUL,SINCE THEY WILL BE SHOWN MERCY.....
November 30, 2012
My sincere sympathy and this individual was truly one of a kind.
I am a successful vice president of a manufacturing company and owe my success to Zigs philosophy.....conveyed to the exciting books.
His presentation skills were also spellbinding and I have tried to come close in my techniques.
I have seen Zig in his Success seminars and will continue to listen to his recordings for the timeless lessons on motivation and maximizing what life has to offer.
Sheldon
Mike Wilson
November 30, 2012
Now you are "at the top" and seeing all of us from above with the greatest motivational speaker - Jesus. God's Blessing upon your family.
Eydie Glassman
November 30, 2012
What an incredibly great man. Zig, you changed my life in so many ways. I will never forget when you autographed my book "See You at the Top", leaving me a special scripture in the bible". It was a direct answer to my prayer that morning. This Jewish kid is saved today because of witnesses like you. G-d bless you Zig. You will be greatly missed.
Jim Philpott
November 30, 2012
Thank you for what you have meant to my life. Humbled to be able to call you friend. Next time I see you it will truly be AT THE TOP in Heaven.
Loretta O'Connor
November 30, 2012
FAMILY OF ZIG ZIGLAR.
NOW WE ARE SEEING HIM AT THE TOP!!!OUR LORD HAS HIM.
Prayers go out to you all.
November 30, 2012
We will miss you, Zig--see you at the Top...Ed Bridgeman
November 30, 2012
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
nan allustiare - hartzell
November 30, 2012
Zig , I will never forget you. You made a imprint in my life of what I needed to do and where I needed to go. Thank you.May Peace Be With You My Friend .
November 30, 2012
Mr. Z Z,
I studied your words, and I loved their content! You were an inspiration to thousands; my mentor & Professor Edwin Pearson quoted you on numerous occasions! R.I.P.
"Sell the Sizzle" was something I embraced when teaching Salesmanship!!!
What a grand contribution Mr. Zig Ziglar has made to our country!!!
F R Blalack
Janice L Cook
November 30, 2012
Thank you Zig Ziglar: You motivated so many of us sales professionals around the world. May God comfort your family
Mike
November 30, 2012
I'm a better person today, Thanks to you!
In 1985 my wife left me and took my son. I was in a very dim place in my my life. Then a year later, I was on a trip in the Bahamas with some friends and the only radio station that we could get was 'The Winners News Network' out of Ft. Lauderdale. That is were I first heard you speak. That day changed my life. You taught me to see the good in everything that happens, and focus on that. Thank you Mr. Ziglar you made my world a better place. Rest in Peace, you are surely missed.
Frank Mascari
November 30, 2012
Zig wrote: John 14:6 on the back of A Special Promise Card when I asked for his autograph.
Randy Aumsbaugh
November 30, 2012
Many rewards await you with our Lord. Thank you for your testimony and encouraging words. You were truly a blessing to all.
Stephen Pinkney
November 30, 2012
I frist heard Mr. Ziglar in college and he was a great motivationa speaker!
Connie Weaver
November 30, 2012
Thank you Zig Ziglar, senior year in high school I enrolled in the I CAN Class. Then in college, in Dr. R.K. Tucker's class we read CHOICES. I was the first in my family to graduate from college. GREAT inspiration you touched so many lives. I will never forgot you. My deepest sympathy to Ziglar Family.
November 30, 2012
Thank you Zig. Navy Recruiting Command...
Anne Sonnier
November 30, 2012
Thank you Zig for all your inspiration! Anne Sonnier
Paul Holmes
November 30, 2012
When I started out selling many years ago Zig's tapes provided me the skills and motivation to become very successful.I appreciate his being there for me and reminding me."there are no traffic jams on the extra mile" God bless you, Zig
Laurie Mann
November 30, 2012
My first exposure to Zig was after I had been married 25 years. His tapes helped our mariage become better and helped us grow as individuals!
I am very sorry for your loss.
teresa
November 30, 2012
It is a wonder thing to be able to motivate people by words that enlighten them. The bible of Gods' word at John 17:3 says "This means everlasting, their taking knowledge of you th only true God, and of the one whom you send forth Jesus Christ." He tried to make life in his world better with the knowledge he had.
Lance Gutierrez
November 30, 2012
I am so blessed to have had Zig as my Sunday School teacher many years ago at First Baptist Dallas. He was a shining example of Christian manhood. I love the way he often referred to Jean as "Little Red". God bless you all. There may be tears of sorrow down here, but can you imagine what a wonderful celebration is going on in Heaven? I have heard him speak of Heaven so many times, and glad to know he's there!
Tom Underwood
November 30, 2012
I had the privilege of hearing Zig speak in 1960 and always found his words to be motivating.
November 30, 2012
Thank you Zig Ziglar for helping me get through the hardest of times. You've undoubtedly helped millions of lives with your words of encouragement and wisdom. Thank you.
Bonnie Clark
November 30, 2012
You were one of my heros. You took the gospel with you wherever you went. I'm sure God welcomed you with open arms and said, "well done, my good and faithful servant".
cindy rye
November 30, 2012
To his family,thank you for sharing your father and husband with the world , we are praying for you all at this time.
November 30, 2012
A good man who did great work. A true ambassador of Jesus and Godly principles.
Mary Bennett
November 30, 2012
My prayers go to the family at this time of sorrow. We knew and worked with Zig when we were all with Automotive Performance Inc. in Dallas TX in the 60's & 70's. Then we moved to Dayton OH and saw him each time he did a motivational program. I have all of his books & tapes. He will be missed. My heart goes out to Jean at this time. God Bless.
Mary Bennett
Jim Cain
November 30, 2012
Zig was influential in my life starting about 1974 with SEE YOU AT THE TOP. My condolences to his families.
Jack A. Diebold
November 30, 2012
Zig, thank you for all of your great words of wisdom and truth. You were loved by many. Your impact on the nation of believers will be felt for generations to come. What a glorious moment when you heard those endearing words, "Well done, thy good and faithful servant." "Welcome to Heaven." Shalom.
A great man...Zig's books helped me grow in my faith.
November 30, 2012
Darrell Canady
November 30, 2012
Thanks to the "RED HEAD" for sharing Zig with us.
jim wagener
November 30, 2012
The best speaker and motivational person ever, hope all of us who listened to his words will play them foward to make the world better.
November 30, 2012
An excellen speaker,and very motivating
encouraging,and uplifting.
he will always be remembered.
Praying for comfort for the family.
Roxanne & Tim Copeland Norton, Ohio
November 29, 2012
Ziglar, you were making a big difference worldwide. We are far away missing you. Your motivation will remain.
Dr. Tariq Abdulsalam Omer
Sudan
Jeffery Rom
November 29, 2012
Zig God Bless You. You have positively affected so many.
November 29, 2012
I heard you speak once. Your in a rare class with Norman Vincent Peal and Billy Grahm. Not bad company Zig. Your words live on. We will miss you.
November 29, 2012
Our sincere condolences to the Ziglar family, he will be missed! Coming out to Texas for the facilitator (Train the Trainer) classes was a turning point for those of us attending and certainly for the many T.C. Smith and King Drug employees here in North Carolina. Zig was certainly "Born to Win".
Chuck Rousseau, Asheville, N.C.
Ryan Messano
November 29, 2012
I am deeply saddened at the passing of a life that meant so much to me, and many others. When I was young and struggling, reading of Zig's struggles and eventual triumph left me with hope, with joy, and with peace with whatever situation life threw at me. The way he could laugh at situations that often strike fear into the hearts of mortals, left him as immortal, and indeed this is what happens when we mortals surrender our lives to the will of the Almighty. May you be blessed eternally for the many blessings your life provided to your fellow man in your life. If the greatest gift a human can give another human is a life well lived, you have given the greatest gift, Zig.
Dan Rhodes
November 29, 2012
A special person for a special time.
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