Zerline Thomas Anderson (Zee)

Zerline Thomas Anderson (Zee) , a beacon of warmth and grace, passed away on September 2, 2026, after a courageous battle following a stroke she suffered in November 2024. Born on August 14, 1943, in McAlester, Oklahoma, Zee was the beloved daughter of Joe and Ona Thomas. Zee was a graduate of L'Ouverture High School in 1961, and attended Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton, prior to moving to California. Zee's life was a testament to kindness, humility, and generosity. She devoted over 30 years of her career to the Kidney Transplant Service at the University of California, San Francisco. There, she compassionately guided hundreds of families through the challenging journey of kidney transplantation and the critical follow-up care, making a lasting impact on countless lives. A devoted and active member of St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Berkeley, California, and Tanner A.M.E Church in Phoenix, Arizona, Zee's faith was a cornerstone of her life. Her legendary cooking, cherished by family and friends, was an expression of her love and hospitality. In addition to her loved ones being blessed by Zee's meals, she also helped feed the homeless in her local community. Zee's home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of delicious meals. Zee was a dedicated mother to: Michael Thomas (deceased), Ira (Josey Ventura) - Phoenix, AZ, Stephen Sr. - Pearland, TX, and Kamara Anderson - Phoenix, AZ A loving grandmother to: Brittany - Austin, TX and Stephen Jr. (Leona) and great granddaughter Auvi Anderson - Missouri City, TX, and Malik - Phoenix, AZ, Omri - Los Angeles, CA, and Ariyonne McElroy - Phoenix, AZ Her siblings were her lifelong companions, sharing in her joys and challenges: Billy Joe (Carrolen) Thomas - McAlester, OK, Eva Thomas (Charles Mays) - Oklahoma City, OK, Gloria (Thomas) Wyatt - Anthem, AZ, Joann Hollins (deceased), Margaret (Stanley) Silas - Gilbert, AZ and Patricia Bannister (Cousin/Sister) - Dunkirk, MD. Though predeceased by her parents Joe and Ona Thomas, her son Michael Thomas, and her sister Joann, Zee's legacy endures in the lives of those she touched with her compassion and generosity. Zee married Robert Anderson in San Francisco, California, and together they navigated the early years of marriage with love and resilience. Though their paths eventually diverged, their shared experiences and the family they built together remained a significant part of her life journey. Zee's passing leaves a profound void, yet her spirit continues to inspire all who knew her. Her family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a charity of your choice in her memory, a gesture that reflects her lifelong dedication to helping others. As we celebrate Zee's remarkable life, we hold dear the memories of her unwavering love and the lessons of kindness she imparted to everyone fortunate enough to know her.