Zieg was born in North Side in the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, on 12 November 1872. Her parents were German immigrants.

Her husband Edward passed away in 1941. Prior to moving into a nursing home, she had worked part-time in Glenshaw Presbyterian Church’s housekeeping department.

At the age of 102, when asked about her ambition, she stated that she wanted to live to be 103. On her 108th birthday, she was interviewed on the “Good Morning, America” television show, and when asked about the secret of her longevity, she said, “Well, I eat jelly bread sandwiches. Smucker’s makes the best.” It was reported she stood less than 5 feet tall. She was a member of Glenshaw Presbyterian Church since 1930. She was a member of the ladies auxiliary of Undercliff Volunteer Fire Co.

Zieg passed away of natural causes in the Presbyterian Home in Oakmont, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, USA, on 1 December 1984. She was survived by two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.