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SPRING HILL, Fla. - Eugene Anthony "Gene" Pellillo, 84, born Sept. 30, 1942, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026, at Hospice House in Spring Hill, Florida, with his daughter, Gina, by his side. Originally of Youngstown, Ohio, he resided in Florida for many years.
He was preceded in death by his father, Anthony (1968) and mother, Mary (1995); two loving aunts, Lena and Ann; and two uncles, Bill and Phillip; along with a very special cousin, Nick.
He was a man of remarkable character, intelligence, strength, determination, love for life and immeasurable love for his daughter, Gina; two granddaughters, Alissa and Alexis; grandson, Anthony Eugene; and nine great-grandchildren. His oldest great-grandchild, Gianna, had a special place in his heart. He leaves behind six cousins, Richard, Bobby, Bill, Rosemarie, Phillip and Karen. He knew he was leaving Gina surrounded by her loving family, Aunt Becky, as well as her Aunt Ginny and Uncle Mark, and her partner, Steven, to care for her.
He was a graduate of Castle Heights Military Academy in Lebanon, Tennessee, where he formed a lifelong bond with his cousin, Richard, and continued his education both at OSU and graduated from YSU in 1965, with a 4-year degree in business.
When he lost his dad at an early age of 25, he continued the legacy of The Triangle Cafe (1963-1984) and Cyclone Car Wash/Seat Covers (1964-1990) with his mother. He co-owned and operated The Town House Motel (1972-1990) in Youngstown, Ohio. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to pursue many business ventures in Boca Raton, including Roma’s Pasta and More, Unique Creations, and an ice cream shop.
Geno never let anything stand in his way. His adventurous spirit, whether exploring the underwater world, scuba diving, being high in the sky flying planes, being behind the wheel of drag racing with his best friend Chops or racing horses, News and Spartan Star, his legacy will never be forgotten. He lived a life many would dream of. He possessed a sharp mind, a determined spirit and a natural ability to turn his ideas into accomplishments. He created stories, memories and a legacy that will live on forever.
Anyone who knew Geno knew his daughter was his pride and joy. A true, devoted, and proud dad. Gina was his greatest treasure. In 2003, he moved to Spring Hill to be near her. Above all else, she was his greatest asset and even at age 52, she was the true meaning of “Daddy’s Little Girl.” He always said, “It’s just you and me, kid.” Their relationship was truly special, and the love he had for his daughter was one of his greatest legacies. He was immensely proud of her; the bond they shared was one that could never be broken.
When it came to food, Geno had a true passion for good food and good company, at no expense! He loved Italian food and he could make meatballs like no other. He loved educating people on how to cook and his way was always the best. His favorite pastime was watching The Food Network and The Ohio State Buckeyes. He will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, love for golf, gambling and playing cards, extravagant dinners at the nicest restaurants and the best get-togethers on Stoney Creek Drive and at the motel in Boardman, Ohio.
Our hearts are broken as we say goodbye to a man who meant so much to so many. Though his journey ended, the memories he created, the love that he showed, his generosity, strength, wisdom, comfort and wealth of knowledge will be felt forever.
His presence brought warmth to our family, and his love created memories that will be cherished for generations to come.
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