Celia Zirin's Obituary
Celia Wyatt Worsham Zirin, loving wife, sister, mother, nana, and friend passed on August 18, 2023, in her adopted hometown of Tampa, Florida. Celia was born May 14, 1946, in Danville, Virginia to Herman and Olivia (“Cecile”) Worsham, graduated from Mary Washington College (now University of Mary Washington) in Fredericksburg, Virginia with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, and later completed a Master’s Degree in Education at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida. Celia had a lengthy and distinguished career as a computer programmer and IT project manager in fields such as telecom, healthcare, and banking, including many years working at CTG and HSBC, and was enjoying a well-deserved retirement for the last several years. She is survived by her husband of 52 years Neal, her daughter and son-in-law Stefanie and Mark McCans, grandsons Jackson and Owen McCans, and sisters-in-law Cheryl Worsham and Nancy Zirin. She was preceded in death by her parents Herman and Cecile, her brother Allen Worsham, and Neal’s parents David and Shirley Zirin.
Celia was a kind, joyous, strong, and loving woman who threw her whole heart and soul into everything she did. She was intelligent, witty, and curious, and knew how to make everyone around her feel welcomed and special. Even when facing adversity, especially in this last year, Celia was always positive and resilient and never stopped fighting. Her grace and class elevated every organization she was a part of, and her humor and positivity shone through to the end.
Celia and Neal enjoyed more than 50 years together, traveling the world, golfing, and cheering on their beloved USF Bulls. She was a devoted grandmother (“Nana” to her boys), attending their awards ceremonies, tennis matches, and musical performances, and gladly accepting any opportunity she could to take care of them. Celia was a talented sewer and quilter, making beautiful creations for herself, friends, and family. She was also an active member in several local women’s groups, including Ladies of the Crown and the Tampa Palms Women’s Club.
The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life to honor Celia on Sunday, September 3, 2023, from 12-4pm at the Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd, Tampa, Florida 33647). Appetizers and an open bar will be provided, and everyone is welcome to come share your memories of a wonderful woman. This will be a casual event, no formal attire needed. In lieu of flowers or food, the family asks that you please consider making a donation to a charity or a worthy cause close to your heart to honor Celia’s giving spirit.
What’s your fondest memory of Celia?
What’s a lesson you learned from Celia?
Share a story where Celia's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Celia you’ll never forget.
How did Celia make you smile?
