Mr. Harold Edward King, Jr.

UTICA - Mr. Harold Edward King, Jr., age 61, transitioned into the arms of the Lord on Wednesday, October 27, 2021; in the comfort and dignity of his sister Martina’s home, where he was cared for by his family, and his personal aide Dimonique Hunt. Harold truly “went out like a King,” escorted by family. Born in Utica on August 7, 1960, to the late Harold Edward King Sr. and Ella Mae (Deese) King. Harold remained local for his early years. He attended Brandegee Elementary School and JFK Middle School before relocating to Saint Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands with his uncle Robert L King, ESQ., to spend his high school years. However, Harold would not stay away from his hometown for long, he soon after returned to Utica to continue his life. Harold was a man who truly invested in his family and his community. In 1986, he met and dated the former Darlene Trombetta, and 11 years later, the two were wed on April 11, 1997. Harold was a supportive husband, who grew to be a large part of Darlene’s family and a great asset to his late father-in-law. In fact, he participated to such a great extent in her family that Harold was soon considered an “honorary Italian.” Yet such was Harold’s way; he loved exploring and knowing family heritage, which inspired him to meet and embrace his own culture, and that of his own family. A professional man who provided for his family, Harold was first employed by the City of Utica as a grant writer. After that, he shifted to employment in Oneida County, and then took a position with the Indium Corporation. Harold rounded out his career endeavors by being a Democratic Inspector for the Board of Elections. Harold was exceptionally present to both his own wife and family, as well as to his siblings; indeed, he was like a second father to them, and would offer counsel and protection. Harold possessed tightly held convictions about work-ethic, generosity, and community service – all values he labored to instill in those he loved. Harold believed “you should give more than you take,” and lived his life accordingly. His beliefs went on to shape his political ideals. Harold had a wonderful appetite for life; if there was a party, Harold was there. He believed in living life to its fullest, and was guided by his personal motto: “Embrace, spend time with, and always love first the family.” Harold cherished the special moments in the lives of those he loved, as was exemplified by his habit of calling family and friends at midnight to wish them a “Happy Birthday!” He also knew no boundaries with the food he liked. Harold was renowned for his enjoyment of oxtails, sausage and peppers, and he made an awesome sauce. The life of the party and a quick wit, Harold was sincerely unlike any other. Being a community servant was a priority to Harold. He served as a volunteer at New Forest Cemetery. He served as a revered coach for several teams and leagues: he was the first coach at the St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Baseball League, and he coached and played at Quinn Park. There, Harold invested time and interest in the countless lives he encountered – in fact, many of whom continue to call Harold “Coach” to this day. Harold was motivated by his passion to help others know the rules of the game, and was committed to seeing value in each of his players. He expressed an interest in his players’ athletic abilities, but moreover was vested in their personal development, empowering them to be aware of abilities even they may not have seen. Harold’s non-judgmental approach brought out the best in those blessed by his coaching. Harold celebrated life with his family. There are especially fond memories of 4th of July annual family cookouts at Verona Beach, get-togethers for Christmas, and other Holidays. Additionally, Harold appreciated his times at Turning Stone Casino and down in Atlantic City. As luck would provide him, he was fortunate to have had two vacations in Jamaica with his wife, which they enjoyed immensely. Harold came to know the lord as a lifetime member of Hope Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church. Harold is survived by his wife, Darlene. He also loved his children, Louis Olive, Katrina King, Courtney Potter, Sylvanus Jones and his wife Lashaunda Jones, Naomi Jones, Sierra Jones; and his god-daughter Cloeii King. He will be fondly remembered by his grandchildren, Emmanuel King, Kiara King, Damari King, Yahirah Jones, Saraya Jones, Zavion Jones, Zy'mir Jones, Olivia Huxley, Alayna Huxley, Ann-Marie Olive, and Isaiah Olive. He also leaves behind his siblings, Frieda Rodgers, Stephanie King, Dorthea King-Simpson and her husband Samuel Simpson, Martina King, Kiyana Starcevic and her husband Gligo Starcevic; his brother in-law, TJ Borawski; and his uncles and aunts, Donald King (and his late wife Evelyn), Robert L. King ESQ. and Mytsooko King, and Doris and James Robinson. He also left behind his mother-in-law, Doris (Ashley) Trombetta; and his in-laws, Debbie Campbell, Maria and Walter Hilley, Rose and Marco Rubino, and Debbie Trombetta. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Howard and Eunice Deese; his paternal grandparents, Dallas James and Dorothy (Rollins) King, his aunts and uncle, Carrie Jenkins, Arnette and Jerrold Jefferson Sr., his sisters, Shelly Marie King, and Taraja Borowski, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Rudolph J. and Angela (Gelfuso) Trombetta, and his in-laws, Frank Trombetta, Linda Rose, and Gino. He will be further remembered by his host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and friends. Harold cherished friendships with his special cousins, the late Marshall "Skip" Jenkins, Calvin "Boobie" Jenkins, Jerrold "Jay Zack" Jefferson, Steve Pearson, Larry "Dunkin" Goodman, Donny Bowens, Risa King, Trina Caesar, Jennifer King-Reese, Melissa King-Hart, Evelyn King, Doris "Doll" Jenkins, Lisa Jenkins, Debbie Steele, and Doris Bowens; and special friends, Sheila Boyd, Rakim Cannon, Eric Henry, and Jerome Crawford. Special thanks to Rev. Baugh and the Hope Chapel family, Dr. Zittle and Nurse Claudia from U of R Wilmont Cancer Institute, and the Drs and nursing staff at the Sister Rose Vincent Clinic. Visitation will commence on Saturday morning, November 6, 2021 from 10:00 to 11:00 at Hope Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church, 751 South St. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend Harold’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life, which will follow Visitation at 11:00 at his home church. The family is requesting that all in attendance of services to please wear a face covering over their nose and mouth. Interment will follow in New Forest Cemetery.

Mr. Harold Edward King, Jr.

August 7, 1960 - October 27, 2021