Zola Chieppa

Zola Ruth (Pollard) Chieppa, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2024, in Jupiter, Florida, at the age of 95.

Zola, affectionately known as Ruth (and sometimes Polly, Nana, or GG), was the cherished daughter of Merritt Fuller Pollard and Zola Rae (Frans) Pollard. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 57 years, John Michael Chieppa, and her brothers, Merritt Jr. and Harold Pollard.

Ruth's early life took place on a rural Nebraska farm, where she attended school in a one-room schoolhouse. She was passionate about 4H, excelling in raising chickens, yard beautification, and canning -- even winning a state championship and a trip to Chicago. Her passion for art led her to Nebraska Wesleyan University and later to the Ray Vogue Art School in Chicago, where she met her husband, John. They married in 1951 and raised their family in Batavia and Lisle, Illinois.

Her generous spirit was unmatched. A talented seamstress, Ruth made her grandchildren the most exquisite Halloween costumes each fall, and with her church sewing group she crafted hundreds of outfits for children in need. Each fall she baked dozens of loaves of her famous zucchini bread for everyone she knew.

After retirement, she and John were "snowbirds" and split their time between Jupiter, FL and Carpentersville IL. Later, Ruth moved to Tequesta Terrace Senior Living Center in Florida where she proudly was an Ambassador, welcoming new residents and sending birthday and get well cards to all.

Ruth is survived by her children, Pamela Rowe (Stephen) and Frank Chieppa (Roberta); her grandchildren, Carolyn Brougham (Alexander), Jeffrey Rowe (Katherine), Abigail Chieppa, and Nicole Chieppa; and her great-grandchildren, Grace, Charlotte, Noah, and Margaret. Her radiant smile and warm spirit will be dearly missed by all whose lives she touched.

A celebration of life will be held on January 13th at the First United Methodist Church of Jupiter, FL at 11 AM and an additional celebration will take place in Illinois at a later date.