Helen Ann Zebro

Helen Ann Zebro, 80, of Closter, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, April 26, 2026 — a bright and beautiful New Jersey spring day, befitting a woman whose faith and warmth touched all who knew her. She passed gently and without suffering, at peace, and in the presence of those she loved most.

Born on October 3, 1945, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Helen grew up in Kearny, NJ, where she proved to be a gifted art student, earning recognition for her talents before graduating from Kearny High School in 1963. She went on to attend Montclair State University, earning a B.A. in Fine Arts — a passion she would spend her life sharing with others. A devoted watercolorist, Helen created many beautiful pieces throughout her life. Following graduation, she built a career in teaching, first at Woodcliff Lake School and later at Dorchester School in Woodcliff Lake, NJ, where she also found the love of her life.

On July 18, 1970, Helen married Raymond G. Zebro in Kearny, NJ, beginning 55 wonderful years of marriage. Upon starting their family, Helen devoted herself fully to her husband and children, later returning to education as a substitute teacher in the Northern Valley region. Helen had a lifelong love of the water — from cherished family vacations on the shores of Long Beach Island, NJ, to marveling at the beauty of Lake Michigan during visits to Chicago — the water always seemed to bring her joy and peace. In her later years she delighted in the artistic talents blossoming among her grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to cheer them on and support them at their activities — and she was beyond proud of each of their many accomplishments.

Helen was a devoted and dedicated born-again Christian whose faith was the cornerstone of her life. She worshipped at several cherished congregations throughout her life, most recently at Northern Valley Church in Cresskill, NJ. She had a gift for genuine connection — always asking about your family, your children, your life — and making you feel truly seen. Whether over a cup of her beloved “cawfee” or a long phone call with a friend or family member, Helen had a way of making everyone around her feel valued and loved.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Raymond G. Zebro; her sons, Daniel Zebro and his wife Jennifer, and Mark Zebro and his wife Lizzie; her grandchildren, Justin, Annie, Claire, and Jane; and her sister, Barbara Wojciechowski. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank Rydelek and Helen Ulchinsky.

Services:

Family and friends are invited to attend a wake on Monday, May 4th from 4:00–8:00 PM at Moritz Funeral Home in Closter, NJ. A church service will follow on Tuesday, May 5th at 10:30 AM at Northern Valley Church, Cresskill, NJ.

In lieu of flowers:

Donations in Helen’s memory may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society https://bloodcancerunited.org/?campaign=390400

or to VNA Health Group Hospice Care.https://vnahg.org/memorial-gifts-and-gifts-in-honor/