Edward V. Zegarelli, Jr., an esteemed educator, United States Army Veteran, and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, at his home in Branchport, New York.  He had recently celebrated his milestone 85th birthday.  

Born the oldest of four sons to the late Dr. Edward V. Zegarelli, DDS, and Irene M. Zegarelli (Ceconi), Ed grew up in Westchester County, North Tarrytown (Sleepy Hollow).  He attended Archbishop Stepinac High School in White Plains, graduating in 1958, before going on to earn his Bachelor of Science in biology and chemistry from Columbia University.  It was during his undergraduate studies at Hobart College in Geneva, New York, that Ed developed a fondness for the Finger Lakes area, where he would later return to live the majority of his life.  Furthering his education, Ed obtained a Master of Arts and a Certificate of Advanced Study from SUNY Oswego in education.  

From 1961 to 1964, Ed proudly served his country as a member of the Third Armored Division (“Spearhead”), Combat Command B, of the United States Army during the Vietnam Era.  Stationed in Germany, he provided essential medical and dental services to his fellow servicemen.  

Ed’s true calling and passion lay in teaching.  He was a highly dedicated high school science teacher at Penn Yan Central Schools from 1970 through 1996, primarily teaching chemistry, physics, and biology at various levels.  His love for his students was unparalleled, and he could often be found in the science rooms before and after school, offering guidance and support.  Affectionately referred to as “Mr. Z” or “Dr. Z” by his students, Ed had a talent for creating special connections and even bestowing nicknames on his students.  He also held positions as Assistant Varsity Football Coach and Senior Adviser at Penn Yan Academy, and took great joy in counseling students on their college and undergraduate studies.  

When Ed was not advocating for his students, he was also a valued member of the Penn Yan Central School District faculty, where he served on the negotiation team for numerous collective bargaining agreements on behalf of the teachers.  Additionally, Ed contributed his expertise as a grant writer, successfully obtaining extra funding and resources for Penn Yan schools.  Throughout his tenure, he formed lasting lifelong friendships with fellow teachers and staff members.  

Ed’s dedication to community service extended beyond education, as he was initiated into the B.P.O.E. (Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks), Penn Yan Lodge #1722 in 1980.  Over the years, he held various positions within the organization, most notably being elected Exalted Ruler of Penn Yan Lodge in 1985, a position he held for several years.  Additionally, Ed served as District Deputy and New York State Vice President for the Southern Tier.  

Through his work at the Penn Yan Elks Lodge, Ed established the Penn Yan Elks Scholarship Committee, which has provided invaluable financial support to countless students.  Alongside fellow Penn Yan Central School teacher, Deb Manahan, Ed diligently served as chairman of this scholarship committee for 34 years.  He took immense pride in the program, referring to it as “the best Elks Scholarship Program in New York State.”  

Ed’s life was centered around his family, and he often credited his success to the unwavering support of his devoted wife, Joan.  They met in 1968, and after moving to the Finger Lakes area, they built a life together on “the hill” in Branchport, where they raised their two daughters, Melissa and Jennifer.  Ed instilled the values of hard work and responsibility in his family, exemplified by their 25 years of raising sheep and caring for a variety of other pets.  Ed’s love for animals was a reflection of his kind and compassionate nature.    

Together with Joan, Ed contributed significantly to the Penn Yan community, owning and operating The Mulberry Bush, a beloved children’s clothing store, from 1980 through 1990.  He also coached Little League Softball for many years.  Beyond his professional pursuits, Ed enjoyed a variety of interests and hobbies, including sports, winemaking, crossword puzzles, reading, learning about various world religions, the Civil War, and gardening.  

In the final years of his life, Ed was lovingly cared for by Joan.  Besides Joan, Ed leaves behind a legacy that includes his two daughters, Melissa R. Valente (Anthony) and Jennifer C. Zegarelli (Daniel) and five cherished grandchildren: Sarah, Laura, Eric, Alexander and Gianna.  He is also survived by his three brothers, Dr. David J. Zegarelli, DDS (Elena), Phillip E. Zegarelli (Barbara), and Dr. Peter J. Zegarelli, DDS (Carol), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

For those wishing to honor Ed’s memory, donations may be made to the Branchport Keuka Park Fire Department, 3686 NY-54A, Branchport, New York 14418.  

Visitation will be held at Joseph F. Nardone Funeral Home on Friday, November 28, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Funeral Mass will be held at The Church of the Magdalene, 525 Bedford Rd, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591, on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 10:30 am

Private Interment to Follow at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.