Harris Jay Gallinger
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Harris Jay Gallinger, an extraordinary friend to all who knew him, on November 6th, 2024. He departed this world peacefully while receiving care at Mount Sinai Morningside in New York City, at the age of 74. Born on February 6, 1950, in New York City to the late Ruth (Kirschner) Gallinger and the late Sol Gallinger, Harris was a cherished soul whose impact will be felt for years to come.
A lifelong New Yorker, Harris grew up in the Bronx, surrounded by a vibrant working-class Jewish community, before making his home on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in the late 1970s. His story is one of resilience and love, most notably demonstrated through his enduring bond with his sister, Barbara Gallinger Pensky, who bravely fought breast cancer but passed away 15 years ago. Harris’s heart always held a special place for her, as he celebrated her memory by often speaking fondly of the good times that they shared together.
As a dedicated worker of FJC Security (now known as Allied Universal Security), Harris rarely missed a day of work while assigned to the 30th Street Men's shelter, where he charmed many of his colleagues with his quick wit, kindness, and easily smile. Yet, Harris was no pushover, when challenged, he was direct and very frank with his comebacks. Harris presence on the job brighten the day of the workers and the shelter residents alike. He will be greatly missed.
Harris was preceded in death by his parents and sister, but he leaves behind seven first cousins (including Paula Pappas and Rena Taylor) and an extensive circle of friends. To all who had the pleasure of knowing him, thank you, Harris, for being an unwavering friend and a brother-like figure to his close friend, Artenkah Carswell, and many others. Your legacy of kindness and connection will live on. May you rest in peace.
Family and friends will honor Harris's life during a heartfelt graveside ceremony on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at Montefiore Cemetery. We will celebrate the beautiful life and cherished memories that we shared of our beloved Harris.
In honor of Harris's memory, the family kindly requests that instead of flowers, you consider donating to the following charities:
God's Love We Deliver (https://www.glwd.org)
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (https://broadwaycares.org/)
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IN MEMORY Nestor Benjamin Zapata Passed Jan 15, 2026 Born June 28,1932 Resided Nyc, NY Nestor Benjamin Zapata went home to the Risen Jesus on Jan 15, 2026 at age 93. Nestor was born to Nestor Zapata Sandoval and Anita Vinck on June 28, 1932 in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. As a Child, He excelled in school, theater and sports. With leading roles in plays at George Washington H.S. IN Washington Heights, NYC. He was also an avid baseball and basketball player. He loved playing golf with his friends. He also was an excellent ice skater that few PR's can do. Nestor met his 1st wife, Connie at a church dance. They married two years later and went on to have four children, Nestor, Michael, Laura and Christina. Also many Grandchildren as well Great-Grandchildren He later met his current wife, Grace and married Nov 5, 1999. They loved going to meetings to celebrate the gift of sobriety. As well as helping many people along the journey. They also enjoyed going to Lincoln Center, Radio City and Broadway. Seeing Hamilton twice! They acquired an incredible taste for NYC Cuisine. In addition to being a dedicated father, Nestor also loved the NY Yankees and NY Giants, also staying active in AA & holding various roles at the church. He also will be remembered for umpiring little league on Roosevelt Island. He held an unwavering faith in God, which He shared with those who surrounded him.
Viewing Thursday December 18th, 2025 9:00 A.M. to 9:30 A.M. Funeral Mass Church of St. Monica 413 East 79th Street New York, NY 10075 Thursday December 18th, 2025 10:00 A.M. Private Cremation In Lieu of Flowers Donate to St. Jude https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html
Donna M. Hamilton, a beloved mother, was born on December 27, 1943 in Kansas City, MO and peacefully passed away in the early evening of October 31, 2025. Donna’s faith guided her outlook to motherhood and to life. Donna grew up throughout the state of Texas. After graduating high school, her family moved to Washington, D. C. She eventually met and later married Vernon Hamilton (1930-2014); they had three children. Donna enjoyed participating in her church's events, embroidery, watching Hallmark movies, and most of all being with her family and friends. She had a beautiful smile and a kind, friendly personality that was noticed by everyone. Donna retired from New York Presbyterian Hospital after working as a Physician’s Assistant for over 35 years. She worked in the ambulatory surgery and plastic surgery departments, but her passion was in plastic surgery. Donna was phenomenal and highly respected in her field and often would be called upon to help the student physicians. Donna is survived by her three children: Scott, Melody, and Todd, an older brother, John Scott, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her grandson, Hamilton, who lived nearby, was often at her apartment visiting, going to the store for her when it became too difficult, or trying to keep her spirit up. Donna was loving, kind, charming, and unforgettable. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and she will continue to inspire us all. Two quotes that our mother always told us (and the grandchildren and great-grandchildren): “treat others the way you wanted to be treated” and “do not compare yourself to others because for always there will be greater and lesser persons than you.”