In Loving Memory of Vidosava Zdravkovic
Vidosava Zdravkovic, lovingly known as Vida, passed away on October 7, 2026, in Newton, Massachusetts, at the age of 91. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, honesty, modesty, and wonderful sense of humor.
Born on January 18, 1935, near Vranje in Serbia, Vida lived a long and full life surrounded by family, friends, and countless cherished memories. Vida spent her youth in her hometown before moving to Belgrade, where she lived for most of her life. She often visited her daughter, Dragica, and her family in Boston, eventually moving to permanently live with them and making Newton her home in the last two decades of her life.
Vida had a special way of making people feel welcome, whether she was preparing a meal for her family or sitting down with a friend or neighbor over a cup of Turkish coffee, a shot of rakija, and good conversation. Her door was always open, and there was never a shortage of stories to share or things to talk about. She took great pride in caring for others and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Her warmth, modesty, and generosity made her a much-loved presence in the lives of everyone who knew her.
Life brought Vida more than her share of hardships. She endured the heartbreaking loss of her husband and, later, her older daughter, who was only 40 years old when she passed away. Despite these devastating losses, Vida found the strength to carry on. Her four grandchildren became the center of her world, and raising them became one of the most important parts of her life. She gave them her time, love, guidance, and unwavering support. Through everything she endured, she kept going for her family, always putting them first and making sure they knew how deeply they were loved.
In the final years of her life, Vida faced the challenges of progressive Parkinson’s disease. Despite the debilitating effects of the illness, she remained mentally alert and sharp. She continued to seek ways to help her family, determined to remain useful and involved in everyday life. Even when her hands trembled, she insisted on helping with household chores, folding laundry, and peeling vegetables. She would express regret that she could no longer do more to help, a reflection of how deeply she cared for those around her and how much she valued being able to contribute.
Vida found joy in the simple pleasures of everyday life. She loved cooking and baking for her family, crocheting, tending to her daughter's garden, and watching the Serbian television quiz show Slagalica. She expressed her love in her own special way: through the meals she prepared, the advice she offered, the help she gave, and her comforting presence. She may not always have expressed her feelings in words, but her love was evident in the many things she did for those around her. Her life revolved around the people she loved, and in her final days, she was fortunate to have her family by her side.
Vida leaves behind her daughter, Dragica; son-in-law, Srba; grandchildren, Ana, Alex, Jovan, and Sofija; grandson Jovan's wife, Branislava; her sister, Cveta; and many other relatives in Serbia. They will miss her deeply and carry her memory in their hearts always. Her absence will be felt at family gatherings, in familiar conversations and daily routines, and in countless little moments when they will wish they could sit with her just one more time.
Although saying goodbye is incredibly difficult, Vida's life reminds us of the strength it takes to persevere, the importance of family, and the lasting impact one person can have on the lives of so many others. She will be remembered for exactly who she was: strong, honest, modest, caring, and full of life. Her stories will continue to be told, her wisdom and advice will be treasured, and the love she gave so freely will live on through her family and future generations.
Vida will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
Per Vida’s wishes she will be buried in Belgrade, Serbia. A memorial service at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral in Cambridge will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral. https://www.stsavaboston.org/donate