Zola Faith Cusick

January 25, 1936 to June 11, 2026

Zola Faith (Hunt) Cusick, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, educator, and servant of God, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, in Lucerne, CA. She was 90 years old.

Zola was born on January 25, 1936, in Risingsun, Ohio, to Norman and Lucille Hunt. Raised in a family that honored and served God, Zola embraced a life of faith and service from an early age. She graduated with honors from Saginaw, Michigan, High School in 1953 and began her professional journey working at a CPA office for Saginaw Steering Gear. However, her passion for music led her to Evangel College in Springfield, Missouri, where she majored in piano. It was there that she met the love of her life, Orvan Cusick of Vermillion, South Dakota. The two married after Zola’s junior year and welcomed their first child, Julie (Cusick) Winter.

In 1961, after Orvan had graduated with a business degree from Evangel College, the couple moved to Southern California. Zola completed her Bachelor’s degree with honors at California State University, Los Angeles. She later earned a Master’s degree in education, as well as an administrative credential from California State University, Fullerton.

In 1968, Orvan and Zola welcomed their second child, Rodney Cusick. Zola dedicated her life to education and spent 36 years teaching at Powell Elementary School in Azusa, California, primarily teaching at-risk kids. She found immense joy in teaching and cherished every moment spent shaping young minds. Her commitment to excellence and passion for learning left an indelible mark on countless students.

After retiring in 2000, Zola and Orvan built their dream home on Clear Lake in Northern California. They enjoyed many happy years together, boating on the lake and entertaining friends and family. Retirement also allowed Zola to explore new hobbies; she developed a deep appreciation for art and learned to paint while continuing to nurture her lifelong love of music. A devoted Christian throughout her life, Zola served as a pianist for her church and taught children’s and women’s Bible studies. Alongside Orvan, she co-managed Overcomers, a support group for individuals dealing with co-dependency and substance abuse. Their dedication provided hope and healing to many within their community.

Zola also loved traveling across the United States by RV with Orvan,and embarked on numerous cruises that brought them joy and adventure. Her vibrant spirit shone through all aspects of her life - whether camping under the stars or sharing laughter with loved ones.

Zola is survived by her husband of more than six decades, Orvan Cusick; her daughter, Julie Winter; her son, Rod Cusick; three grandchildren: Zachary Winter, Adrian Winter, and Taylor Cusick; as well as 4 step grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren, and many others touched by her kindness and generosity.

She was pre-deceased by her parents, Norman and Lucille Hunt; her brother, Harold Hunt; and her sisters, Mary Weiker and Joyce Mikula. Zola’s legacy is one of faithfulness, compassion, creativity, and unwavering dedication to those around her. Her memory will live on through the lives she touched as an educator, mentor, friend, wife, mother, and grandmother- and above all - a servant of God. May those who knew Zola find comfort in remembering the joy she brought into their lives.

A Memorial Service will be held at First Assembly of God Church 4472 Snook Ave, Clearlake, CA on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 11:30 AM.