Harold E. Zayas, 66, a lifelong resident of Perth Amboy, NJ, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at JFK/Hackensack Meridian Health Medical Center in Edison.

A graduate of Perth Amboy High School, Class of 1979, Harold worked at Raritan River Steel for over 20 years. He then went on to further his education at Lincoln Technical Institute, where he completed the HVAC certification program and made it his career. He worked for the Perth Amboy Board of Education as the HVAC Maintenance Supervisor, where he served with skill, dedication, and pride for many years.

Harold was a longtime member of the Perth Amboy Council #299 Knights of Columbus and was well known in the community for his deep love of softball. He coached his daughter's teams for many years and played for over 15 years in the Union County Senior Softball League, as well as in numerous leagues across Perth Amboy and surrounding cities. He brought energy, leadership, and joy to every team he played with. He also found great happiness in salsa dancing, always moving through life with rhythm, soul, and an unforgettable smile.

Beyond his talents and accomplishments, Harold will be remembered most for his heart of gold. He was the best kind of person—kind, humble, generous, and endlessly devoted to those he loved. Whether through a quiet gesture, heartfelt advice, or a laugh, he made everyone feel seen, valued, and loved.

Harold was predeceased by his beloved parents, Edwardo and Nicolasa (Jimenez) Zayas, and his brothers, Elvin and David Zayas. He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Maria (Sotolongo) Zayas; his devoted daughters, Jade G. Zayas and Victoria N. Zayas; his cherished sisters, Ruth and Priscilla Zayas of Winder, GA; Evelyn Zayas of Colonia, NJ; and Loida Clifton and her husband Scott Clifton of Monroe Township; and his dear brother Edwardo Zayas of Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico. He is also lovingly remembered by his brother-in-law, Louis Sotolongo of West Palm Beach, FL; his many beloved nieces and nephews; his friends who were like family and his W.G.N.L. crew, who he loved like his brothers.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Flynn and Son/Mitruska Funeral Home, 23 Ford Avenue, Fords, NJ 08863. The Funeral procession will begin on Thursday, May 15th, 2025, leaving at 9:15 AM from the Flynn and Son/Mitruska Funeral Home. The procession will arrive at St. Joseph's RC Church, Carteret Avenue, Carteret, NJ 07008 for a Funeral Liturgy at 10:00 AM. Cremation will follow privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Harold's name to https://giving.mskcc.org