- April 18, 2024
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County Commissioner George Hanns’ life partner of more than 23 years, Sophie Zabas, died Friday, Aug. 12, at the age of 74 after a battle with ovarian cancer.
Hanns returned to his seat at the commission the following Monday, Aug. 15, saying that in doing so he was honoring Zabas’ memory.
Of his years on the County Commission, he said, “I attribute most of it to Sophie motivating me to do good and help people.”
Zabas enjoyed botanical gardens and wine tastings and occasionally played slot machines, Hanns said.
“She was a happy, funny lady that cared about others, and her memory will keep me motivated,” he said. “I’m honored to have shared 23 years with a wonderful lady who cared about me as much as I cared about her.”
Zabas was born in Lithuania and immigrated to the U.S. with her family when she was 8. She worked at the Flagler County Library as a librarian and was a member of the member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary. She was married to Joseph Zabas Sr. for 30 years before his death in 1992. A service was held for her Aug. 19 at Craig-Flagler Palms Funeral Home.
