Harold Emanuel Zell

Harold was survived by his daughter, Carla Zell, of St Simons Island; his son, Dickey Zell (Charlotte), of St Simons Island; his favorite granddaughter, Brooke, of St Simons Island; younger brother, Royald Zell, of Tampa, FL; Rudine McDonald, caring companion, of Brunswick, GA; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents, Carley and Anne Zell; wife of 55 years, Lucy Zell; older brothers, Gerald Zell and Donald Zell.

An alumnus of Glynn Academy Class of 1948. Harold attended Georgia Tech on a U.S. Naval scholarship and graduated in 1952. He later graduated from Harvard University Small Company Management Program in 1979.

Harold was commissioned as LTJG with the U.S. Navy in 1952 with an honorable discharge in 1955. He served on the LST525.

Harold worked at General Insurance Business, a family business. After, he became a registered representative with Shearson-Hammill, a member of New York Stock Exchange until 1972. Since 1973, he focused on motel development and management with various national hotel chains.

He was a member of U.S. Jaycees (served as President). He was also a member of Days Inn of America as a 450 Club Member and served on the Franchise Advisory Council.

Harold was a member of Temple Beth Tefilloh.

Harold loved tennis. He had a standing Wednesday match at Jekyll Island indoor court for 30 years. He enjoyed fishing, woodworking, traveling, photography, bird watching, and finding the best food and wine. He loved all his dogs but was especially fond of his last Maggie.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Golden Isles, Golden Isles Youth Orchestra, or a charity of your choice.

Public Visitation: Edo Miller, Thursday, 10/01/2026, from 5PM – 7PM.

Service of Remembrance: Temple Beth Tefilloh, Friday, 10/02/2026 at 2PM, reception to follow.