John C. Willison III 1960-2025

Jack was born April 11, 1960, in Youngstown, a son of John and Dolores Venosky Willison Jr. He was a 1979 graduate of Chaney High School, a lifelong resident of the Mahoning Valley and a member of St. Michael Parish in Canfield.

After high school, Jack worked for McHenry Industries in Youngstown for several years. He later fulfilled his dream of opening his own car dealership, Willison Motors in Columbiana, which he proudly owned and operated for more than 33 years until his passing.

Before anything else, Jack put family first. He loved nothing more than being at home with his wife — they had everything they needed in each other. Jack was especially proud of his children, cherishing every moment with them. He also loved spending time with his parents and often joined them for lunch during the week.

When Jack thought he had it all, he was blessed with four grandchildren who adored him, affectionately calling him “Poppy.” The bond he had with each grandchild was truly remarkable, and he passed down a legacy that will live through each of them forever.

Jack’s second passion in life was all things cars — whether that was finding, selling, restoring, driving, or just being around them at car shows and swap meets. Jack owned a countless number of vintage muscle and sports cars over his lifetime and couldn’t tell you his favorite if you asked. His love of cars led him to a number of great friends who often gathered at “the shop.”

Anyone who knew Jack knew he was a simple man who always went with the flow. He never took anything too seriously and had the kindest heart. Jack was always willing to lend a helping hand, expecting nothing in return — except maybe a Mountain Dew.

Jack is survived by his parents; his beloved wife, Celeste Vaccaro Willison, whom he married Feb. 25, 1989; his children, John “J.C.” (Heather) Willison IV of Canfield and Chelsea (Phillip) Sarnowski of North Lima; his four grandchildren, Grayson and Selah Sarnowski, and Cameron and Halston Willison; his sister, Diane (Ken) Fusco of Salem; brothers- and sister-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father- and mother-in-law, Anthony and Diana Vaccaro.

Family and friends may call 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, at Davis-Becker Funeral Home, 8536 Market St., Boardman, and again 8:30 to 9:15 a.m. Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, at the funeral home.

A prayer service will be 9:15 a.m. Monday at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Michael Church, 300 N. Broad St., Canfield, with the Rev. John-Michael Lavelle officiating.

Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

In honor of Jack’s courageous battle, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society at cancer.org/donate.

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