Zara Ledford Mathis, age 91, of Morning View, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by the love of her family.

Zara was the former Owner and Operator of Zara’s Beauty Salon on the north side of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a devoted member of Wilmington Baptist Church. She cherished her family above all else and found great joy in spending time with them—especially in the kitchen. Zara was well known for her famous fried chicken. Her hobbies included fishing, shopping, and tending to her garden, activities that brought her both peace and happiness.

Zara was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Mathis; her daughter, Theresa Burnette; and her parents, Calvin Ledford and Bertha Barger Ledford.

She is lovingly survived by her grandsons, Robbie Burnette (Cristin) and Richard Burnette, and her great-grandson, T.J. Burnette, all of whom will cherish her memory always.

A visitation for Zara will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 from 1:30 pm until the time of her funeral service at 2:00 p.m., at Chambers and Grubbs Funeral Home, 11382 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051. Interment will follow at Wilmington Baptist Cemetery, 15472 Madison Pike, Demossville, KY 41033.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Elizabeth Hospice, 483 South Loop Road, Edgewood, KY 41017.