Kendra L.

Zimmerman

Kendra Lenora 'Candy' Zimmerman was born on February 26, 1959, in Toledo, OH to loving parents, Oscar & Verna Dean Zimmerman. Kendra unexpectedly passed away on February 18, 2025, at the age of 65.

She attended St. Teresa School, Notre Dame Academy, Jackson State University, and the University of Toledo, graduating with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. She worked at the YWCA, Sparrow's Nest, Family House, and Watkins Carryout. She was actively involved at First Church of God, Toledo, OH, her whole life. At a young age, she was in the youth choir, attended youth conventions, and faithfully participated in her cell group as she grew older. She also felt a great sense of pride in launching the Holy Cross Fitness Ministry in collaboration with a close friend.

Kendra found joy in the simple moments—family gatherings, sharing food and drink recipes on Facebook, playing Candy Crush on her phone, watching the Food Network Channel, and WWE wrestling. Her family commonly called her "the city's grandmother," because she would always keep everyone updated on school closings, delays, and even making sure that parents kept their children dressed warm for the cold winters of Toledo. She also found joy in collecting and drinking wine, some of her favorites coming from St. Julian's Winery and the Stella Rosa brand. Kendra also loved a good Lemon Drop, her favorite was from J. Alexander's.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Verna Zimmerman, her beloved daughter, Autumn Zimmerman, brothers - Frederick Suttler, Dennis Suttler, Buddy Lewis Zimmerman, James Lobdale, sister - Patricia White, nephews - Zyeri White and Eric White Jr. and nieces - Ericka White and Neisha Zimmerman.

Though her absence leaves a deep void, her legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory and celebrate her life, daughters - Keisha Zimmerman, Adriana King (William), Robyn Zimmerman, and sons - Antuan Zimmerman, Johnathan Zimmerman, Devon Zimmerman, and niece/daughter - Timesha "MeeMee" Watkins. As well as her siblings, Sylvia Boykins and Kevin Zimmerman (Marianna), grandchildren - Keyara, Ke'Shaun, Kylan, Key'Mari, Kaleb, Italy, Nala, great-niece/granddaughter, JaNayia, a great-granddaughter, Keh'Lani, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and friends.

Kendra will be remembered for her feisty but gentle spirit, her warm embrace, and her ability to make people feel special and loved. Many looked up to her, especially at First Church of God, where she was a source of wisdom, love, guidance, and mentorship.