Caroline Natalie Zahner

Caroline Natalie Zahner Hephzibah, GA - Caroline Natalie Jordan Zahner, lovingly known as “Granny,” passed away on Thursday, July 2, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born on March 27, 1960, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Caroline made Hephzibah her home for the majority of her life, where she raised her family. She was widely known in her community as Ms. Caroline from her years at Ryan’s and Golden Corral, where her warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on so many. But of all the roles she held in life, being Granny was the one she treasured most. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into each of them in ways both big and small. Caroline had a gift for making everyday moments feel special. She loved taking trips to Kroger, Sam’s Club, Walmart, and Big Lots, often with a grandchild by her side. She made sure everyone was fed, often going out of her way to provide meals, snacks, and everyone’s favorite treats—small, quiet acts of love that meant everything to those who received them. If someone needed something, they rarely had to ask twice; she was already on her way with it. Her love extended beyond her family to animals and nature. She delighted in caring for her two pups, Brandy and Cisco, along with her chickens. She had a deep love for nurturing animals of all kinds. She also enjoyed birdwatching and had more bird feeders than one could count. Caroline’s love was fierce and unconditional. Without fail, she would say, “I love you with all of my heart,” a phrase that perfectly captured how she lived her life. She gave freely, loved deeply, and put others before herself in all things. Caroline is survived by her adoring children, Michael Zahner (April), Matthew Zahner (Jessica), Melissa Zahner (Garrett), and Jason Zahner (Amanda); her cherished grandchildren, Brian, Natalie, Chelsie, Kaylee, Emily, Zachary, Preston, Savannah, and Hannah; her husband, Aquila Russell; her sisters, Jacqueline Saul (Mike), Janet Waltz (Reggie), and Galle Gale (Pete); her brother, Scott Jordan; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Steven Zahner; her parents, Roy and Erna Jordan; and her brother, George Jordan. Funeral services will be held in the chapel of Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 4:00 p.m., with Reverend Wesley Weatherford officiating. The family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. until the hour of the service at the funeral home, located at 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, Georgia. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, our mom’s legacy of love defined by selflessness, generosity, and unwavering devotion will continue to live on through our family, in the traditions she created, and in the countless memories she leaves behind. Chance and Hydrick Funeral Directors, 2502 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, GA 30906 www.chanceandhydrick.com

Caroline Natalie Zahner

March 27, 1960 - July 2, 2026