Mary Austin Zakas Moore

Mary Austin Zakas Moore, 79, of Johns Creek, GA,  died on July 13, 2017 .  A.B. and Edith Austin of Union County NC welcomed her as their first born child on May 3, 1938.  She was a graduate of Western Carolina University, where she earned a B.A. in Journalism.  In 1960, she made her way to Atlanta where she taught elementary school in East Point until she met her first husband, George Zakas, whom she married in 1961. 

She left the education field, and founded Secretaries of Atlanta, a temporary secretarial staffing firm.  Along with her husband, she operated AAA Labor and A-1 Labor Services.  As her children were born, she continued to work, but her primary focus was on raising a family.  She was an avid gardener, and an active member of her neighborhood garden club.  She was known for her elaborate floral displays, as well as her large vegetable gardens. 

Upon the untimely death of her husband, she became the sole provider for her three children.  She returned to education, working in the Emory University School of Business.  She also earned her real estate license and acquired an interest in real estate development that would remain with her throughout her life. 

She married for a second time, in 1978, to O.G. Moore.  Together they founded Waterproofing Contractors, Inc., a national commercial building restoration firm based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Of all the different jobs she held in her life, the most fulfilling to her was that of “Grandmother”.  Known by many as “Nani”, she was a permanent influence and constant friend to the true loves of her life, Ryan, Greg, Katie, Brian, Austin, and Blair.  Whether it was a trip to the nail salon, shopping or playing “Waffle House” at the stove of her elaborate kitchen, each grandchild was always made to feel that they were the most important person in the world.

She is predeceased by her husband George D. Zakas, and her second husband O.G. Moore, and her parents, she was also predeceased by her step-daughter, Denese Zakas, who died in 2009. 

Survivors include daughters Tasia Walsh (John McKnight) of Charleston, SC, Anna (Tom) McManus of Suwanee, GA.  D.G. “Charlie” (Julie) Zakas of Norcross, GA, Grandchildren Ryan Walsh, Greg Walsh, Brian McManus, Katie McManus, Austin Zakas and Blair Zakas, her very devoted sister and primary caregiver Ann Drew of Johns Creek, GA, sister Brenda (Ronald) Ervin, brothers Lynn (Beverly) Austin, and Jim (Elizabeth) Austin.  Many nieces and nephews also survive.

The family wishes to express our eternal gratitude to Josette Hypolitte, Marie Jean Baptiste and    Margarette Payen for the superior care and comfort they provided to our mother and sister.

Visitation will be from 1-3pm on Sunday July 16, 2017 at McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 3pm in the chapel of the funeral home following the visitation. Interment will be at Sawnee View Gardens.

Condolences may be expressed at www.mcdonaldandson.com.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home, 150 Sawnee Drive, Cumming, GA  30040 (770) 886.9899