Zoma Long Spivak, 90, a long-time resident of Rockledge in Storrs, passed away February 16, 2026 at Douglas Manor. Zoma graduated from Penn State University with a BA in Fine Arts and later earned her MA in early childhood education at ECSU. An enthusiastic follower of Piaget's work, Zoma believed deeply in nurturing the natural curiosity and creativity of young minds.

Zoma had a long, distinguished career teaching art in Stafford, where it was cherished by students and faculty alike. As one former student, Jason Parker, shared: "She was a dedicated teacher who had a positive influence on generations of students both before and after me. Zoma could bring out the artist in everyone."

Her life's work lives on in the many hands she guided, the imaginations she sparked, and the generations she inspired.

She was predeceased by her sister, Charlotte, and her beloved daughter, Rachel. Zoma is survived by her niece, Sarah Wood Accord of NC and nephew David Wood of Arizona.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Mark's Chapel, 42 North Eagleville Rd., Storrs, CT on March 7, 2026 at 10:00am.