‘RHONY’ Star Jill Zarin’s Husband Has Died at Age 71
It’s a sad day for fans of the Real Housewives franchise. Jill Zarin, who starred on seasons one through four of The Real Housewives of New York, lost her husband, Bobby Zarin, this weekend at the age of 71 following a decade-long battle with cancer.
The 54-year-old reality alum broke the sad news to fans on her website, where she posted a statement on behalf of her family. “With the heaviest of hearts, we are devastated to share the news that our beloved Bobby Zarin passed away peacefully today surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer,” she wrote. “There are no words to describe how heartbroken we are. Thank you, everyone, for all your love and support during this difficult time.”
Bobby, a real estate developer and founder of Zarin Fabrics, had three children from a previous marriage — 41-year-old David, 38-year-old Jennifer, 35-year-old Jonathan — as well as 25-year-old stepdaughter Ally Shapiro, who often appeared on the show alongside mom Jill.
The latter took to Instagram to share her own tearjerker of a tribute, posting a throwback photo and penning some seriously sweet words. “We [love] Bobby… thank you for giving me such a wonderful family and being the most incredible stepdad anyone could ever ask for,” she began. “I don’t remember a time without you, and you will not be forgotten. Every shot of Patron, every time we [listened] to ‘Hotel California,’ every vroom of a Ferrari, you will be right there with us. You fought with dignity and courage, surrounded by all of us with love and respect till the very end. You can rest In peace now, we love you so much.”
Jill’s castmate, Ramona Singer, also remembered Zarin fondly on her Instagram page, writing, “My heart goes out to you @mrsjillzarin and your family… Bobby will be greatly missed by all. He was a very special person. Bobby — the love and memory of you shall never pass away.”
It was 2009 when Zarin was first diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Despite fierce treatment, the cancer had spread to his lungs by 2013 and, in November 2016, doctors found a cancerous tumor in his brain.
Back in December, his wife shared a home video with followers in which she tearfully confessed, “I’m just going to miss Bobby. I’m going to miss my life with him.”
The couple celebrated their 16th wedding anniversary just two weeks prior, saying, “Happy anniversary to my Bobby Zarin… a lifetime of memories.
RIP, Bobby Zarin.
(Photos via Jamie McCarthy/Getty)
