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Zanaa Da'Zariah Queen
August 7, 2009 – October 30, 2025

A Life of Light and Purpose

Zanaa Da'Zariah Queen, a published author and radiant young woman, began the opening chapter of her remarkable life on August 7, 2009, in Tallahassee, Florida. She was the beloved daughter of Britney Houston and the late David Queen, Jr. From the moment she arrived, Zanaa was a blessing whose light touched every heart she encountered.

Known by many affectionate nicknames, she was most lovingly called "Naa" by her family and friends, a name that perfectly captured her sweet spirit and playful nature. A beautiful daughter, granddaughter, goddaughter, niece, cousin, student, and friend, Zanaa brought joy, laughter, and strength to everyone around her. She lived with grace and intention, embracing life with her QUEENly confidence, always striving to do her best, help others, and uplift everyone she met.

Faith and Devotion

At the top of Zanaa's heart's desires was her relationship with God. She was active in the Youth Ministry at St. Matthew Primitive Baptist Church in Quincy, Florida. Her faith shaped her outlook on life and strengthened her joyful spirit. In April 2025, she accepted Christ as her personal Savior, and was baptized by her grandfather, Elder Gregory Houston.

Family and Love

Zanaa's love for her family was deep and unwavering. She shared a special bond with her cousins and looked forward to every family gathering filled with laughter, good food, and fellowship. She was affectionately known as the family photographer, capturing precious moments and transforming them into cherished digital memories that told the story of her love and creativity through her camera lens.

She especially loved and adored her younger brother, Kai, and was fiercely protective of him. Their bond was filled with laughter, guidance, and love, a connection that reflected Zanaa's caring and nurturing spirit.

Education and Excellence

Zanaa understood that education was the key to her future. A dedicated and talented student, she was an honors student at the School of Arts and Sciences and a dually enrolled honors student at Tallahassee Collegiate Academy (TCA) and Tallahassee State College (TSC). Her academic accomplishments reflected her commitment to excellence and her belief in lifelong learning. Driven by an unshakable determination to achieve at the highest level, Zanaa often completed her class assignments long before their due dates. Her discipline and focus earned her admiration from teachers and peers alike. Along with her many accomplishments, she received an invitation to join the Emory Junior Residency Summer Program in Atlanta, Georgia, a recognition of her outstanding academic performance and leadership potential. Her dreams extended far beyond the classroom. Zanaa envisioned continuing her college education at one of several esteemed institutions, including Florida A&M University, the University of Miami, Spelman College, Penn State University, or the University of California.

Music, Art, and Creative Spirit

Zanaa possessed a remarkable creative gift. She was a published author, a talented artist, and a gifted musician who could express emotion and beauty in many forms. She played several instruments, including the keyboard, guitar, xylophone, and clarinet, and she loved sharing her music with family.

She would often get lost in the rhythm of her favorite songs, having curated a multitude of playlists that reflected her moods and her love of all genres of music. Whether she was composing melodies, taking photos, or writing stories, her creative spirit shined brightly through every note, word, and image.

Adventures and Dreams

Though young in years, Zanaa lived a full and adventurous life. She experienced the world through summer excursions and travels, exploring new places, cultures, and cuisines that broadened her mind and deepened her sense of wonder. She often spoke of her future with boldness and clarity, proclaiming that she would be the family's first trillionaire. She had even chosen her dream car, the Mercedes-Benz AMG360, which she proudly planned to purchase one day.

Her confidence, ambition, and imagination made her not only a dreamer but also a doer—someone who truly believed that no goal was out of reach with hard work, faith, and determination.

Leadership and Service

Leadership came naturally to Zanaa. She was involved in the Student Government Association on both campuses and was an active participant in Sister 2 Sister (TCA). She often volunteered her time with numerous community events and outreach programs. She also served as an advocate against bullying, using her voice and compassion to make a difference. Among her friends, Zanaa was a steady presence, an encourager, listener, and light who anchored her circle with love and confidence.

A Joyful Spirit

Zanaa's zest for life was displayed through her smile, laughter, love for all as well as her many talents and dreams. She found joy in life's simple blessings and cherished every moment spent with those she loved. While outgoing and full of fun, she was also thoughtful and discerning, welcoming new friendships once trust and comfort were built. Once she did, she quickly became the life of the party.

Stylish and confident, Zanaa believed that looking her best helped her feel her best. She was a true girly-girl who loved her bling, trendy fashions, creative hairstyles, and the latest sneakers—always finishing her look with a signature fragrance that reflected her bright personality.

Dreams and Destiny

Among the many aspirations on Zanaa's dream list was her dream of becoming a traveling nurse, dedicated to restoring the health of others while exploring the world. Her caring heart and adventurous spirit shined in every goal she pursued.

Yet, God had a greater plan for His precious child. On Thursday, October 30, 2025, He called Zanaa home to receive her heavenly reward. Though her earthly journey was brief, her impact was immeasurable, and her spirit continues to inspire those who knew and loved her.

A Lasting Legacy

"Time is not measured by the years that you live, but by the deeds that you do and the joy that you give." Zanaa's light will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her loving mother, Britney Houston; maternal grandparents, Elder Gregory and Mother Linda Houston; paternal grandparents, Tangela Sears and David Queen, Sr.; brother, Kai Taylor; raised-as-sibling, Madden Houston; godparents, Rashada (Ulysses) Houston Turner and Walter Dix; god-siblings, Ari Turner and Hampton Dix; aunts, Ebony Houston and Markeia (Travis) Mitchell; uncles, Marcus (Nekeisha) Houston, Damius Houston, and Jerrelle Houston; great-aunts, Sandy Sears, Pamela Houston, Ivy Houston, Etheldra Green-Smith, Valaire Willis, and Annie Norton; great-uncles, Matthew Lawrence and Hagman Green, Jr.; great-great grandmother, Alice Houston; and a host of cousins, other family members including great-great aunts and uncles, and cherished friends who will love her always.

She was preceded in death by her father, David Queen, Jr.

Though she is no longer with us, the memory of Zanaa Da'Zariah Queen—her grace, her laughter, and her faith, will forever live in our hearts.