Zelma M. Carby, 74, of Deltona, Florida, passed away on December 16, 2025. She was born on August 4, 1951, in Kingston, Jamaica, to Leopold Kinlock and Wilhel Montaque.

Zelma lived a life defined by kindness, purpose, and service to others. While living in Kingston, Jamaica, she attended college and became a teacher, sharing her knowledge while teaching Physical Education and Social Studies. After immigrating to the United States, she worked in banking in New York before eventually relocating to Deltona, Florida. There, she followed her calling to care for others by returning to school to become a nurse.

As a nurse, Zelma was deeply loved by those she served and worked with. Her compassion and gentle spirit left a lasting impression, often reflected in the thank you notes and small gifts she received from grateful patients and families. Zelma's co-workers gained a long-lasting friend, comrade, and stories to last a lifetime. Caring for others was not just her profession, but her heart's work. While her words were always truthful and often blunt, her actions were where her caring heart shone through. She advocated for truth and justice not only for herself, but for those around her. Zelma's honesty and sense of justice are rare qualities, these qualities that she had were admired by those who knew her.

Zelma was a devoted provider and the foundation of her family. Her faith was central to her life, and her church family held a special place in her heart. Answering the call to ministry, Zelma became a Minister and Pastor actively spread the word of God. She maintained being a Minister and servant of the Lord Jesus Christ for over 40 years and faithfully preached the word of God to all and attended worship services, and church gatherings.

She found joy in caring for others in everyday ways, especially through her conversations with a warm genuine smile, and passionate, yet gentle spirit.

Holidays were filled with laughter, love, and far more good food than necessary. Her generous spirit extended beyond her family, as both family and close friends were welcome to join in the joy and happiness found at her table.

Zelma's kindness, sense of humor, and servant's heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her and were fortunate enough to be loved by her. She loved to laugh and joke with her family, friends, and co-workers, always ready to share a smile and laugh.

She is survived by her four children: Lincoln Carby, Monique Carby, Kerry-Ann Carby, and Gairy Carby; her two grandsons; her five sisters; and her three brothers.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leopold Kinlock and Wilhel Montaque; three brothers; and six sisters.

A visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with a funeral service beginning at 12:00 p.m. Interment will follow at DeLand Memorial Gardens and then the Repast at Church of God of Prophecy.

Please register here if you plan to attend the repast.

***Please RSVP for the funeral and the repast so that we can know who is coming and who is not coming. For those who are not coming, there will be an opportunity for you to sign an online guest book. We will send you it to you via email once it is available. Thank you so much. ***

Thank you again.

The Carby Family