We are deeply saddened to announce that our mother, Zhaneta (Xhaçka) Xhaxhka, passed away surrounded by her loving family on July 6, 2026.

Zhaneta was born in Korçe, Albania on September 23, 1934, to Sotir and Theodhora (Napuçe) Plluska.

Zhaneta was a beautiful soul, a devoted wife and mother, and a loving grandmother. Her bright personality, generous heart, and unmistakable presence touched everyone around her.

People admired her wisdom, unwavering love, and compassion. Znaneta’s elegant style reflected her refined personality.

Zhaneta grew up in Korçe, where she delighted in riding her bike down the hill without using her hands. She later moved to Tirana, where she met and married Petraq Xhaxhka. Together, they formed a devoted partnership, supporting and loving each other deeply.

Zhaneta had a fulfilling career as a middle school biology teacher. She dedicated time to every student, especially those who struggled most, and served as their advocate with families and colleagues. While others often focused on students’ challenges, Zhaneta always sought out their strengths. This approach earned her deep respect and affection from her pupils.

Zhaneta immigrated to the United States in 1991 and quickly embraced her new home

Zhaneta was a devoted member of St. George’s Cathedral in South Boston, and her faith was very important to her. She joined the Women of St. George's and often helped the church by making communion bread.

When her husband became ill, Zhaneta learned to drive in her sixties so she could take him to medical appointments. She was fearless and consistently faced challenges directly.

Zhaneta enjoyed reading, shopping, traveling, solving Sudoku puzzles, and watching old westerns.

However, Zhaneta’s greatest joy in life was her grandchildren, who affectionately called her nanushi.

Nana cherished strolling with her grandchildren along the beach at Castle Island. She loved walking them to kindergarten and stopping at the corner store for shaved ice, taking them to church, or vacationing with them on Cape Cod or in New Hampshire. She delighted them with her delicious cooking and showered them with affection. In Nana's eyes, her grandchildren could do no wrong. They loved spending time with her, having sleepovers at her house, and as they grew older, they enjoyed caring for their nanushi, shopping together, watching television, traveling, laughing, spending beautiful afternoons in the backyard, or savoring a hot cup of tea on winter days.

Zhaneta was a remarkable person whose kindness, generosity, and warmth left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Zhaneta enjoyed spending time, traveling, and dining with her friends. She was an inspiration and support system for everyone around her.

Zhaneta’s love for her family was unconditional; her support steadfast. Her unwavering love and wisdom have been her family’s guiding light. She has gifted her family with many beautiful, unforgettable memories and treasured moments. We love you very much and will miss you deeply.

She truly embodied the saying, “Good things come in small packages.” Rest in peace!

Zhaneta is survived by her loving family: her son, Genci, and his wife, Ann (Reilly) formerly of South Boston, MA; her daughter, Ilda, and her husband, Paul O’Brien, formerly of Malden, MA; and her grandchildren, S J, Tommy, and Audrey. She was predeceased by her husband Petraq, her parents Sotir and Theodhora, and her sister Tefta.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Friday 7/10/2026 from 4-8 PM at the Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St., Quincy, MA. Additional visiting hours will be held on Saturday, 7/11/2026 from 10:00-11:00 am at St. George’s Albanian Orthodox Cathedral, 523 E. Broadway, Boston, MA 02127, followed by the funeral services at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Forest Hills Cemetery, 95 Forest Hills Ave., Boston, MA.