Harold Roy Carnathan

With overflowing hearts, we announce the passing of Harold R. Carnathan, a beloved family man, devoted educator and coach, on February 18, 2025, at the age of 82. Born in Paterson, NJ, Harold spent much of his life in Randolph, NJ, before retiring to the peaceful shores of St. Simon’s Island, GA.

Harold’s greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his treasured wife of 56 years, Mary (Forbes) Carnathan; two devoted children, Mary Elizabeth McManus (Philip) and Harold J. Carnathan; six loving grandchildren Collin, Mary Cecilia, Liam, Keagan, Hudson and Charlotte; brother and best friend William Carnathan and sisters Claire Hoppstadter and Jean Easdale; many cherished nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews as well as many other loving family members and friends. He was predeceased by parents George and Irene (Kamerleing) Carnathan and siblings Iva Bankos, Robert Carnathan, Lois Pruden, Walter Carnathan, and Beverly Dews.

Harold pursued his passion for literature and education at Seton Hall University, where he earned a degree in English in Secondary Education and played on the men’s basketball team from 1961-1964. A proud veteran, Harold served in the U.S. Army’s 3rd Armored Division from 1965-1967. Following his service, he attained a Master of Arts degree plus 30 credits in Education, from William Paterson College. He began his teaching career at St. Mary’s School in Paterson, NJ before joining the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District, dedicating over 30 years to shaping young minds as an English teacher.

Beyond the classroom, Harold was a dedicated coach, sharing his love of sports through basketball, baseball, and softball. A voracious reader and a lover of wordplay, he delighted in puns, corny jokes, and clever turns of phrase.

Harold’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched as a teacher, coach, and devoted family man. His kindness, wisdom, and humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 10:00 am, followed by interment at St. William Catholic Church, St Simons Island, GA.

Donations may be made in his honor on Harold’s Memorial Page at the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements entrusted to Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home. www.edomillerandsons.com