Jeffrey A Zona

A candle was lit by Karen Lindler White on November 8, 2017 12:28 PM

Message from Karen Lindler White

My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time of loss. The animals have lost a big person who cared about their welfare. Just know that God will be with you throughout. Love, Karen Lindler White

A candle was lit by Pat Taylor Belk Columbiana on November 8, 2017 8:40 PM

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May you find peace and comfort in the arms of God. Jeff will be greatly missed.

Message from Columbia

For a while... my boss. Always... my friend! Jeff!! Prayers for you and your family!

A candle was lit by Veronica Tribble on November 8, 2017 9:41 PM

A candle was lit by Evonne Dreher Willingham on November 8, 2017 10:21 PM

A candle was lit by Becky Lee on November 8, 2017 10:42 PM

A candle was lit by Shirley Cherr6 on November 8, 2017 10:52 PM

Message from Kelly Freese

A boss, to a peer, to a truly close friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to all his family and friends. Jeff is and will be greatly missed by so many for so long...

A candle was lit by Kelly Freese on November 8, 2017 10:57 PM

A candle was lit by Deveda stevens on November 8, 2017 11:39 PM

A candle was lit by Nikki Ladson, OTA team at Belk on November 8, 2017 11:51 PM

A candle was lit by Eddie Rose, Belk Columbiana on November 9, 2017 12:35 AM

A candle was lit by Susan Homner on November 9, 2017 5:40 AM

Message from Jen Sawyer

Thought of you with love today,
But that is nothing new.
Thought about you yesterday
And days before that, too. Think of you in silence and often speak your name.
Now all there are is memories
And your picture in a frame.
Your memory is a keepsake
With which will never part.
God has you in his keeping.
Always in my heart!

A candle was lit by Jen Sawyer on November 9, 2017 5:59 AM

Message from Monique Berry

Jeff (I called him Jeffrey) was a sweet, funny, caring man. He wasn't just a great boss to me for many years, he was also a friend. I'll miss you dude.

A candle was lit by Sandy Foskey on November 9, 2017 7:27 AM

Message from Sandy Foskey

It is with great sadness I try to figure out what to say to express my thoughts for all Jeff's family, friends, and co-workers. I had such respect for his work in the community and his devotion to the animal rescue programs in Columbia. Over the years we became friends and I'm better for it.

A candle was lit by Lisa Smith on November 9, 2017 7:48 AM

A candle was lit by Linda Runge on November 9, 2017 8:10 AM

A candle was lit by Linda Runge on November 9, 2017 8:11 AM

A candle was lit by Michelle S. Moorehead, Belk Columbiana on November 9, 2017 8:14 AM

A candle was lit by Dedric Tribble on November 9, 2017 8:30 AM

A candle was lit by Mary Flynn on November 9, 2017 8:32 AM

A candle was lit by Elaine Sileo on November 9, 2017 8:34 AM

Message from Customer of Belk Columbiana

It was always a pleasure to talk with Jeff at the Belk store. He was always cheerful, kind, caring, and always put the customers first. It's such a loss knowing he will no longer be there greeting everyone. His employee's respected him, he listed to them with what any problems were brought to him. His love for dogs and how he would allow pet adoptions take place now and then were unsurpassed. You will be missed Mr. Zona.

A candle was lit by Deepty Siva on November 9, 2017 8:53 AM

Message from Kim VanTroost

Though I have only known Jeff a few years, I will miss him deeply. Jeff was a huge part of my rescue life and always loved seeing my boxer Champ at the events our rescue held at Belk and Buddy's Saucy Dogs. I will miss his smiling face and his desire to help animals. Rest easy my friend. Deepest condolences to the Zona family.

A candle was lit by Amanda Cato on November 9, 2017 10:14 AM

Message from Amanda Cato

I have known Jeff Zona for seven years and I worked with him the day he started at Belk! he always helped all of us at Belk regarding anything. he also was almost like a second father to many of us. He would listen to our problems and gave his soul to others with giving to kids, dogs Etc... I No he was an active church member and was a full believer in Christ. I am fully sure he is in peace in heaven with the Lord

Message from Gail Zona

Thank you for posting your kind thoughts of Jeff. He is a believer and I can have peace knowing that he is home with the Lord.

A candle was lit by Susan Crowe on November 9, 2017 10:45 AM

Message from Susan & Phillip Crowe

We will miss Jeff greatly. What a warm, compassionate soul with boundless love for all of our furry friends ! He was always a friend. We will remember him fondly.

Message from Gail Zona

Thank you for taking the time to share your warm memories of Jeff.

A candle was lit by Linda Cato42 on November 9, 2017 11:43 AM

A candle was lit by Michelle Anken on November 9, 2017 1:34 PM

A candle was lit by Sharon Nishtick on November 9, 2017 3:06 PM

Message from Tonya Huggins Coble

I met Jeff when I lived at the Grandview Apartments about 4 years ago. The first thing I noticed was that he was reading his Bible, on his kindle, at the pool. We became friends and had many conversations about our Faith and love for Jesus Christ, his 2 daughters, and college sports.
Jeff was a very generous and compassionate man. I shared that one of my students was being raised by his grandmother (on a limited income) and my family was helping the grandmother provide Christmas for her grandson. Jeff asked what their specific needs were and arranged for a sales associate at Belks to assist me with buying a warm coat for the grandmother and some clothes for the little boy.
When I came in to pay for the items, I was told that had already been taken care of. Jeff didn't stop with that. He bought some toys, he thought the little boy would enjoy, and had them wrapped to add to the gifts for this needy family. I feel certain that Jeff did that for Many people that had needs. ❤️
I later, moved out of the apartments and lost contact with Jeff. While I am saddened to learn of his passing, I DO know how much he loved his daughters & his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Jeff's kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.
I wanted to let his daughters know that he talked about how proud he was of them & how much he loved them. I'm sorry I never got to meet Jenna and Kara.
May Jeff find comfort and peace, in the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. ✝️
With Christian love,
Tonya Huggins Coble

Message from Gail Zona

Thank you for your kind words Tonya. Jeff did accept the Lord Jesus as his Savior. I am at peace to know he is home with his Lord and Savior.

A candle was lit by Jerry on November 9, 2017 4:33 PM

A candle was lit by Rob M. Gadient on November 9, 2017 6:25 PM

A candle was lit by Pamela Duffie on November 9, 2017 7:56 PM

A candle was lit by Terri L Purvis on November 9, 2017 8:19 PM

A candle was lit by Terri on November 9, 2017 8:27 PM

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How surreal this is...I have many words but none that would be sufficient to ease the pain of this loss. I count myself privileged, not to have only known him but to have as a friend. He was truly loved and respected by many. He reached out to help so many people and his absence will be felt. Please accept my sincere condolences.

A candle was lit by Gale Gantt on November 9, 2017 8:37 PM

A candle was lit by Amita Patel on November 9, 2017 8:40 PM

A candle was lit by Katherine Brown on November 9, 2017 9:32 PM

A candle was lit by Renee Allison-Riley on November 9, 2017 10:21 PM

A candle was lit by Pat Klosterman on November 9, 2017 10:22 PM

A candle was lit by Men’s Furnshing Belks Columbiana on November 10, 2017 9:00 AM

A candle was lit by Men’s Furnishings Belk Columbiana on November 10, 2017 9:01 AM

A candle was lit by Renee Chapman on November 10, 2017 10:00 AM

A candle was lit by Bill Chapman on November 10, 2017 12:04 PM

A candle was lit by Christin Chapman on November 10, 2017 12:04 PM

A candle was lit by Linda Shirer on November 10, 2017 8:23 PM

Message from Carmen!Carmen! Salon at Belk, Columbiana

We are so sorry for your loss, Jeff was a great friend to our Salon. He was very proud of his daughters and talked of you both often. He was a passionate advocate for animal rights so in his memory we donated $175. to Pawmetto Lifeline in Columbia, SC. He will be greatly missed but knowing he is with the Lord gives great comfort. Sincerely, Elaine Sileo and the staff at Carmen!Carmen!

A candle was lit by Carmen!Carmen!Salon at Belk, Columbiana on November 11, 2017 12:26 PM

A candle was lit by Michelle Pruitt on November 11, 2017 2:13 PM

A candle was lit by Elizabeth Belcher on November 11, 2017 4:32 PM

Message from Gary Conroy

Jeff was a good friend of mine. I was sad to see he has passed away. We met in the early 90`s when G. Fox and Filene`s merged. A few years later he became the store manager of the West Farm`s store and I was the regional manager. It was a great time in our business and Jeff grew the store from 80 million to 100 million over a few years. He was very proud of being the person that lead that team to such great heights.
When he was promoted to a Regional VP our friendship grew. We would talk about how to think through the business and maximize the potential of our teams. Jeff was analytical, strategic, and competitive. He always wanted to win. His determination inspired me and others to accomplish more and reach for greatness.

Outside of work we had a lot of fun. In August I sent him a picture from Fenway Park. Told him Fred ( our boss from Filenes) and I were trying to watch the Soxs put the Yanks out of contention. He said that's a surprise that you text me when your team is ahead. He then said he still told the story how we paid our way into the 2003 Yankees and Soxs playoffs and sat in the Green Monster seats with our friend George.
Over the years we would text him or call him late at night to reminisce of all of the great times we had. My wife and I kept talking about going to Charleston in 2018. She had been with friends a few years ago. I said that would be great because we could connect with Jeff and his family. As I write this, I am really disappointed that we didnt make that trip this year.
Jeff`s passing has saddened me. But I am sure his family, inner circle of friends, and co-workers will miss him greatly. As will I.
My Sincere Condolences.
Gary Conroy

A candle was lit by Melodye on November 12, 2017 8:48 AM

A candle was lit by Michael Bossi on November 12, 2017 6:05 PM

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Jeff was my store manager at Westfarms from 1997-2001 and he promoted me to store manager. He was a great boss and he taught me so much about being a leader. The team in Westfarms was fortunate to have him and he made a difference in many peoples life. I was lucky to have worked for him and was blessed to have known him. My condolences to his family and and I will keep you in my prayers

Message from Fred Hand

I had the previlage to have worked with Jeff at Filenes in Boston when he was a regional VP in 2001. Jeff was a great partner and a good retail merchant. I Was very saddened to hear of his passing. He was way too young! Please accept my sincere condolences on your loss. I am grateful for the time that I knew and worked with Jeff. He was a good man. God bless the Zona family.

Message from Matt Ruel

I was truly shocked and saddened to hear of Jeff’s death. Please accept my condolences. I met Jeff back in 1994 working in the corporate offices at Filene’s in Boston. Jeff was a recognized leader among his peers and did a great job running stores. He was honest and forthright. However, he was more than a good business leader, he cared for his people and helped them develop and grow their careers. He touched the lives of countless people and helped them make their lives better. Please know my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Message from Jean Marie Hill

Jeff was a very good executive and had a passion for business. He was very competitive and made those around him want to achieve new heights. I worked with him at G Fox and Filene’s and remember his work ethic to be second to none. He was always thinking of ways to improve and was constantly bouncing new ideas to gain more business and better efficiency in all areas. The business was in his blood and it possessed his thoughts non stop.
I send my deepest sympathy to all who loved him and pray that your wonderful memories help you through this difficult time.

A candle was lit by Cynthia Cooper on November 12, 2017 8:30 PM

A candle was lit by Gary Collingwood on November 12, 2017 8:34 PM

Message from Gary Collingw

I had the privilege of working with Jeff for several years at Filene’s. Since I have heard of Jeff’s passing I have been reflecting on many of the enjoyable times I had working with Jeff and how inspiring he was . Jeff possessed a competive side and a desire to be the best at whatever he set out to achieve. He always spoke of his daughters and his love of sports. He was extremely generous to those around him and always had a way of making those around him better. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Zona family and all of Jeff’s friends

Message from Gail Zona

Thank you for caring for all us, we appreciate that you took the time to express your thoughts to us.

Message from Barry London

I met Jeff almost 30 years ago, when I interviewed and subsequently hired him as the General Manager of the G. Fox Danbury Store. As one would expect, he was prepared, confident, knowledgeable, sometimes intense, but also gregarious and funny. Although most of our conversation that day centered around his prior work history, experiences, and successes, we also shared stories of mutual interests, hobbies, and family. Needless to say, we had a strong initial connection. Upon his arrival, his impact was immediate, quickly establishing himself as a leader among his peers. In the years that followed, we moved Jeff to our Meriden location, where he guided the store through a difficult re-model, and then to Westfarms, where he lead the store to it's highest volume level in it's history. In 2001, when I left for Lord and Taylor, he was promoted to Regional Vice-President, joining an incredible team of RVP's who immediately embraced him.
Jeff has touched many lives since then, and as often happens due to distance, our contact consisted of the occasional email, a congratulations on a new position, or birthday wish....but he always remained a good caring friend.
Several years ago, when I lost another friend, I received this passage. I hope in some small way, it provides some comfort to Jeff's family......"Death is nothing at all. It does not count. I have only slipped away into the next room. Nothing has happened. Everything remains exactly as it was, I am I, and You are You, and the old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by the old familiar name. Speak of me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference in your tone. Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes that we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me." There is a bit more to this passage, but the essence is, those we love are always in our hearts....always with us. I am deeply saddened by his lose.
Rest in Peace Jeff. May God bless your family and help guide them through this trying time. My thought's and prayers are with them.

Message from Gail Zona

Thank you for sharing so much about Jeff, his heart, his caring for others and his accomplishments over the years. Your words are very much appreciated.

A candle was lit by Susan Lewis on November 13, 2017 7:54 PM

A candle was lit by Jenelle Beckham on November 13, 2017 9:38 PM

A candle was lit by Linda Felder on November 14, 2017 8:47 AM

A candle was lit by Evelyn Britt on November 14, 2017 5:36 PM

A candle was lit by Michelle Roberts on November 15, 2017 10:43 AM

Message from Christopher & Irma

Please accept our condolences during this time of distress. While it is indeed sad that you are mourning the loss of your dear Jeffrey, it saddens God more. There are many memories of him cited here. In the days ahead, you will continue to reflect on seemingly small, yet precious memories. However, take comfort in knowing that just as you have memories, almighty God remembers too. The difference is, only God has the ability to restore perfect life on earth to those in His memory. Notice how the Bible stress this fact in the faith strengthening video link Below:

vimeo.com/237370649

Message from Gail Zona

Thank you for sharing wonderful thoughts and memories of Jeff. He is at peace with his Lord and Savior.

A candle was lit by 💔 Jane Senn on November 22, 2017 8:47 PM

A candle was lit by Debbie Guagenti (Simpson) on November 25, 2017 5:43 PM

A candle was lit by Bruce Bosland on November 26, 2017 8:08 PM

Message from Coach Ed Carlin. SU wrestling coach

Jeff was a great young man and a credit to our wrestling program.
I send my deep sympathy to his family.

Message from Patty Wexler Beversluis-Richards

My dearest sympathy to you Gail, and family at this heartbreaking time.. I know how much I miss my husbands but time heals the wounds and the pleasure of time together will fill your heart with wonderful memories and the time you shared. Peace Gail

Message from Sternberg Raff

I met Jeff at Bambergers in Willowbrook, NJ.. I hired him as my Merchandise Manager. Jeff was like a sponge he couldn’t wait to learn everything he could about all departments in the store. He was my go to guy helping make business decisions to increase volume by expanding businesses. Jeff would work endlessly on the numbers to prove a point. He understood empowerment before it became a mission. He was respected by his piers, managers and staff. De was devoted to his two daughters. We kept in touch over the years..catching up about our families and old friends from Bambergers/Macy’s. I remember when we changed our name from Bam’s To Macy’s and we had a store visor with Art Reiner (CEO) and all of the Sr VP’s of Merchandising.. Joel sneuder Director of Stores.. you can imagine how intense that first meeting was.. jeff and I and our team had much to be proud of.. Jeff helped me prepare the stats and we sailed through that first introduction to Macy’s NY. Over the following years as he moved to G. Fox we kept in touch. We would hook up on Facebook send each other updates about our families and send birthday wishes. He called to let me know he was getting married.. i let him know when our grandson Bradley made first place on his wrestling team. No matter how busy he was at work he continued to coach wrestling. I reached out to him for his birthday and thought it was strange that he didn’t respond. I googled and up came Jeff’s obituary.. I am so saddened by his loss .. Please know we had great times together he was a true partner.. No matter where he worked he always gave his all. I will miss him..

A candle was lit by Gail Leong on June 2, 2018 7:49 PM

A candle was lit by Francis Nazzaro on February 19, 2020 11:57 AM