Jerald L. DePizzo Sr. 1955-2025

Born July 28, 1955, Jerry was a lifelong resident of the Youngstown community, growing up and later raising his family in Girard and Liberty Township before settling in Poland during his golden years.

To know Jerry was to call him a friend — and love him.

Jerry was a natural storyteller — uncommonly funny, personable and quick with wit. He had a rare gift for rising to any occasion, whether at family gatherings, behind a pulpit or before a crowd. No room was ever too big for his voice, his presence or his prose.

He was the devoted son of John and Victoria DePizzo of Youngstown and Girard; brother to Jim (in loving memory), with his wife, Mary Ann; Jack DePizzo, with his wife, Nuggie; and Joy Timko. He was also loved by a large, tight-knit extended family firmly rooted in the Youngstown community.

Jerry shared a special bond with his grandfather, Vincenzo DePizzo, who emigrated to the United States in 1912 at the age of 19, becoming the first patriarch of his family in America. Jerry remained a dutiful son to his parents, honoring them through their later years prior to their passing.

A proud graduate of Ursuline High School, Jerry married his high school sweetheart, Marie DeCapua, for 27 years. Together, they raised their three children, Jerry, and his wife, Kat, with their daughters, Sophia and Izzy; Stephen, and his wife, Jennifer; and Tina, and her husband, Drew, with their children Henry and Audrey.

“Papa” is deeply loved by his children and grandchildren, who keep his joy in their hearts and carry his influence in their lives.

Later in life, Jerry, Marie and her husband, Nick Ihnat, carried themselves with dignity and mutual respect, showing that love and family can grow. Their commitment to one another enriched the lives of their children and grandchildren and strengthened the bonds of family.

Jerry was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 27, a challenge that reshaped his life but did not define his spirit. Though his illness eventually shortened his professional career with Allstate and made daily life more difficult, he remained determined to find purpose. He dedicated himself to raising awareness and resources for others with MS, organizing walkathons, golf outings and fundraising events through the local MS Society chapter.

Despite the obstacles, Jerry continued to share his talents and community spirit. He became a familiar face and team member at Larry’s in Poland, remaining a contributing part of the community he loved.

His life was not without struggles, but in meeting them, he showed his children how to live with authenticity, resilience and empathy. Jerry’s legacy will be remembered in his brightest moments and with the family he relied on through darker times.

He empowered his family to chase big, bold dreams and to succeed in their own way.

His family and friends will celebrate his life — often by enjoying his favorite treats, rooted in family traditions, peppers in oil, in his honor.

In lieu of flowers or formal services, the family requests that a consideration of donation be made to the Heard the World Fund, providing resources to the youth of Youngstown, at LiveOAR.com/heardtheworld.

Professional arrangements were handled by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel.

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