Zaky A. Nassaney

Zaky A. Nassaney

December 16, 1926 – June 3, 2026

Zaky A. “Zak” Nassaney, 99, of Lincoln, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of the late Lillian (Kahla) Nassaney for 66 years. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Anthony and Mary (Sawaney) Nassaney, and a proud member of a family whose name has been woven into the fabric of the Blackstone Valley community for generations.

Zak grew up in a household shaped by hard work, faith, and service—values instilled by his parents and carried throughout his life. At just 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II, serving his country with quiet pride. His military service shaped his lifelong sense of discipline, humility, and gratitude—qualities that defined him as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

In 1961, at the age of 35, Zak decided to follow his dream and continue the work he began in the Navy, cutting hair. He went on to build his own legacy as the founder and owner of Zak’s Hair Salon, opening his first shop in Central Falls in 1964 before relocating to Lincoln more than 25 years ago. Today, his sons James and Paul proudly continue the family tradition, operating a business that has now served the community for 62 years.

Zak’s shop became far more than a place for a haircut—it was a gathering place where neighbors became friends, stories were shared, and generations returned for the comfort of his steady presence and warm humor. His remarkable longevity behind the chair drew local recognition, including a WJAR 10 “Show Us Something Good” feature in December 2024 and multiple Valley Breeze articles celebrating his long and beloved career. Zak continued cutting hair until recently, a testament to his passion, dedication, and love for the people he served.

After his 98th birthday, Zak’s health began to decline. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Lighthouse at Lincoln, where he resided for the past year, for their extraordinary care and compassion.

Zak is survived by his children, James Nassaney, Anthony Nassaney (Cheryl), and Paul Nassaney (Heidi), all of Lincoln, RI, He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Kyle Nassaney (Elizabeth) of Bristol, RI, Cory Nassaney (Hailey) of Lincoln, RI, Emma Nassaney of Boston, MA and Evan Nassaney of Dallas, TX; and five great grandchildren who brought him immense joy: twins Adam and Logan, Cory “CJ”, Carter, and Charlotte Nassaney. He was the father of the late Kim Culpan.

Zak was predeceased by his siblings Habib (Murphy) Nassaney, Jennie Dolatly, Pauline Sahady, Antoinette Armoush, Gloria Solomon, and Victorine Asermeley. He also leaves many nieces and nephews who will remember him for his kindness, humor, and unwavering loyalty.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Funeral Service on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Saint Basil the Great Church, Skyview Drive, Lincoln, RI. Burial with military honors will follow in Saint Basil’s Cemetery, Cumberland, RI. Visiting hours will be held Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 PM at Saint Basil the Great Church, Lincoln, RI.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Zak’s memory may be made to the Saint Basil the Great Church Building Fund, honoring his lifelong devotion to faith, family, and community.