It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jeffery James Van Zandt, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, on Wednesday. September 2, 2026, at his beloved home in Sharptown. Jeff was born on April 30, 1953, in Nyack, NY, a son of the late Elmer Robert "Bob" Van Zandt and Jean Carolyn "Carol" (Blauvelt) Van Zandt. He was raised in the town of Pearl River, where he attended Pearl River High School. A true family man, Jeff prioritized family, faith, and country above all else throughout his life.

For many years, Jeff served as the Superintendent of Water and Wastewater for the Town of Sharptown, where he was known for his exceptional work ethic and commitment to serving the community. He also shared his expertise by teaching wastewater management courses at Wor-Wic Community College and Chesapeake College, imparting valuable lessons on dedication and hard work to his children and grandchildren.

In retirement, Jeff started and dedicated his time to his businesses Delmarva Disability & Delmarva Home Improvements, where he built additions and renovated homes to assist those with disabilities, improving their everyday lives. His passion for helping others was matched only by his love for the outdoors. Jeff enjoyed spending countless hours in nature, whether it was sitting around a campfire listening to oldies music, tinkering in his workshop, or gardening, where he proudly showcased his green thumb.

Jeff was a craftsman at heart, leaving behind treasured handmade items for his family. He found solace in music, particularly the British Children's Choir Libera which brought him peace after the loss of his son and daughter. Among his favorite past times was watching his bird feeders, particularly enjoying the sight of cardinals, while chasing away pesky squirrels.

He is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Ann (Ganoe) Van Zandt; his daughter, Kristina Riggin and husband, Steve; Daughter in law Jeni, Son in law Tommy, his beloved grandchildren, Jordan (Ana), Cody (Courtney), Nicholas, Gage, Zachary, Nathan, Allyson, Chris and Brandon as well as his great-grandchildren, Elaina, Shiloh, Mariana, Lyle, Lilly, Hazel, Hudson, Mallory and Hadley.

In addition to his parents, Jeff was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Karianne Wilkins on January 3, 2015, his beloved son, Bryan Jeffery Van Zandt on April 25, 2017, two grandchildren and a great grandchild.

A memorial service will be held to honor his life and legacy on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, where a visitation will take place from 10:00 to 11:00. The Reverend David Bennett will officiate. Friends and family are invited to join in celebrating the life of a man who touched so many and lived with great kindness and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association by visiting https://diabetes.org/?form=Donate. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him, and his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of his family.