Vicki Dement Zakian

Vicki Dement Zakian, age 70, was born at the U.S. Naval Hospital in Millington, TN on September 14, 1954. She passed away peacefully at the age of 70 at her home in Brownsville, TN. A celebration of her life will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Brownsville on July 3, 2025 at 11:00 AM with visitation beginning at 10:00. Rev. Ray Chandler and Rev. Sammy Tillman will officiate the service.

Vicki was born, the third of four girls, into a military family. She had the privilege of living and traveling all over the world. This love of travel would continue long into her adulthood.

Vicki was a registered nurse by profession, serving in various capacities in that field. She considered her principal occupation and joy in life to be the rearing of her son, Ethan James Ye Zakian. Ethan was by her side in the last months of her life.

A talented artist, Vicki painted, crafted, and especially enjoyed needlework and crochet. She used her creativity in the kitchen as well. Cooking became an abiding interest she shared with her son. Fortunate was the person invited to dinner at their home! She had three other passions in life. She was a constant Atlanta Braves fan and a lover of music— especially Jimmy Buffet and all things Beatles. Her love for birds, cats and dogs was all-consuming. Her current dogs, George and Julia, gave her great pleasure.

Health problems plagued Vicki beginning in her twenties. She endured much pain, trying hard not to complain or to lose hope. In the last months of her life, she needed the support of some special ladies, who became dear friends of us all. The family wishes to especially thank her loving caregivers, Perliner Taylor, Mary Cole, Gertrude Matthews, Clarissa Daniels, Pearlie Turner, Tameka Johnson and April with Amedisys Home Health Group.

Vicki was preceded in death by her parents, Jaunelle and Jere Dement, and two sisters, Jere Suzanne Dement and Diane Dement Brower. She is survived by her son, Ethan James Ye Zakian and one sister, Pamela Dement Russell (Tommy). She is also survived by six nephews and their spouses and her very special great nieces and nephews.

The family requests that any memorials be made to the Haywood County Humane Society, c/o Alice Nunn, P.O. Box 565, Brownsville, TN  38012 or to the First United Methodist Church,117 E. Franklin St., Brownsville, TN  38012. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.