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Ina Louise Prince Windham, age 98, of Magee, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Lakeview Place Assisted Living Center. She was affectionately known as the original “Mrs. Zip.”
Born on November 24, 1927, in Magee, Mississippi, Louise was the daughter of John Berlie Prince and Mary Hiatt Prince. Following her high school years, she pursued a career in education, earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from The University of Southern Mississippi with an emphasis in special education. She was not only an advocate, but was a pioneer and mentor in her field.
On December 24, 1949, Louise married Zeak B. “Zip” Windham. Together, they owned and operated Zip’s Restaurant in Magee, a beloved local establishment they opened in 1963.
Affectionately known as “Weezer” by her many friends, Louise was an active and devoted member of First Baptist Church of Magee and her community. She was a member of the Silvertones and Delta Kappa Gamma, as well as a cherished part of a special group of friends known as “The Golden Girls.” In recognition of her dedication to her community, she was honored with “The Spirit of Magee” award for her involvement in civic and community projects.
After retiring from 33 years of teaching, Louise found joy in traveling and spending time with her family and friends. She served as the activity leader for Senior trips where she was in charge of fun and games, including Bingo and her well known “fabulous prizes”. She especially loved hosting gatherings at her pool house and continued to enjoy working at Zip’s.
In her later years, Louise enjoyed the simple pleasures of sitting on her porch, visiting with loved ones, and appreciating nature. She delighted in journaling, reading devotionals, solving word searches, and crossword puzzles. At her 98th birthday celebration, she was lovingly referred to as “The Queen of Magee.”
Louise was preceded in death by her parents, Berlie and Mary Prince; her husband, Zeak B. “Zip” Windham; her son, John David Windham; and her siblings, Inez Bell, Billy (Gerri) Prince, and Benny (Peggy) Prince.
She is survived by her daughter, Donna Louise (David) Dunn; daughter-in-law, Teresa Flynt Windham; grandchildren, Christopher (Morgan) Dunn, Michael Dunn, Matthew “Zip” (Meggan) Windham, and Lauren Windham (Andrew) Pierce; great-grandchildren, Sawyer, Ava Morgan, Wyndham Dunn, Harper, Mary Blake Pierce, John Prince, Asher David, and Magnolia Grace Windham; her brother, Charles (Judy) Prince; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Louise was blessed with a long and vibrant life, bringing joy and laughter to all who knew her. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched.
The family will receive friends for visitation on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Magee, MS from 11:30 to 2:00 p.m. The service will commence at 2:00 p.m. with Bro. Ryan Wade officiating. Interment will follow at Magee City Cemetery.
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