Dr. Rebecca Ziegler, a beloved resident of Statesboro, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, at the age of 75. Born in Elgin, Illinois, on November 7th, 1950, Rebecca lived a life enriched with education, passion and dedication.

Rebecca's academic journey began at the University of Chicago, where she completed her undergraduate studies. She went on to earn a master's degree in library science from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and a doctorate in religious studies, specializing in norse mythology.

Her passion for knowledge and literature was evident in her long and meaningful career as a librarian at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Ga., where she touched the lives of many students and colleagues with her wisdom and kindness.

In addition to her professional achievements, Rebecca was an artist at heart. She spent her time indulging in her love for reading, collecting rare and fascinating books and attending concerts at Georgia Southern University.

Her creative spirit was further expressed through her talents as an author. Rebecca was also a passionate traveler, always ready to explore new cultures and histories.

Rebecca is survived by her loving siblings, Paul Ziegler and Barbara Gnann; and her dear nieces, Emily Holmes (Aaron) and Molly Plyler (Michael). She was a proud aunt to several great-nieces and one nephew, who brought joy to her life.

She was preceded in death by her devoted father, Ralph Ziegler; and her beloved mother, Dorothy Ziegler; and her sister, Elizabeth Kay Ziegler.

Rebecca's life was honored at a memorial service on August 15th at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Statesboro, officiated by Shari Barr.

The family asks that friends and relatives remember Rebecca through the legacy of knowledge and love she leaves behind.

Rebecca Ziegler will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her shining spirit and intellectual curiosity will remain an inspiration to all.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in Rebecca's name to Doctors Without Borders at https://ourrescue.org/jointhefight or to the Averitt Center for the Arts, 33 East Main Street, Statesboro, GA 30458.

Friends can sign the online register book at www.joineranderson.com.

Joiner-Anderson Funeral Home & Crematory of Statesboro in in charge of the arrangements.

Statesboro Herald, August 19, 2026

Sign the Legacy online guestbook at www.statesboroherald.com.