V. “Jayne” Zahaba

V. “Jayne” Zahaba, age 80, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, in Seattle, Washington.

Born in the Bronx, New York, in 1944, Jayne was raised in Yonkers and educated in its public schools. Her early years were shaped by a close-knit Italian family and a vibrant community that instilled in her a lifelong loyalty to family and friends.

Jayne’s life took a defining turn when she met her future husband, Thomas Robert Zahaba, at an Italian restaurant in Hartsdale, New York. Their connection was immediate and enduring—they married one year later and shared a devoted union that spanned 58 years. Together they built a life marked by adventure and resilience as Thomas served in the United States Air Force. Their journey took them across the globe—from California to Texas, South Dakota to Taiwan, Hong Kong to Germany, France to Italy—before settling on Bainbridge Island in Washington state, where they made their home for 41 years.

Throughout these many moves and transitions, Jayne remained the steady rock of her family. She embraced each new setting with zeal and candor while curating a comfortable and inviting home. Once settled in the Seattle area, she enjoyed great success as an office manager in the advertising, lumber, shipping and architectural industries. She spent 30 years commuting to and from work on the Washington State Ferries where her laughter could be heard across the boat while holding court with friends. Outside of work and home, Jayne was an avid reader with an insatiable appetite for books and stories. Her hands were rarely still—she found joy and solace in knitting and crocheting, creating beautiful pieces that became cherished gifts for her daughters and those around her. She was also an avid baker – especially around the holidays.

Jayne is lovingly remembered by her husband, Thomas; her daughters, Danielle and Lara, son-in-law, Brad, and her grandsons Emery and Thayer. Her legacy lives on through them—in their values, their memories, and the traditions she helped shape.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Marie, as well as her brother Tommy.

May Jayne’s memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.