A method for zeroing memory in computing systems where access to memory is non-uniform includes receiving, via a system call, a request to delete a memory region. The method also includes forwarding the request to an intermediate software thread, and using the intermediate software thread to perform the request as a background process. The method further includes, upon receiving a message from the intermediate software thread, returning to a system caller, while performing the request, via the intermediate software thread, continues in the background.