Francis Gerald “Jerry” Sapienza, 78, of Ellwood City passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at his home.
Born June 11, 1942 in Zelienople, he was the son of the late R. Samuel and Jennie Tomei Sapienza. He was married to Gloria Panella Port Sapienza. They married February 16, 2009.
Jerry was a lifelong entrepreneur which included planning and developing a housing complex, operating Sapienza Super Market, building and running farm markets in Harlansburg and Zelienople. Upon retirement, he continued to manage the family holdings which included apartment rentals. Jerry loved telling stories about his family history. His family had done business on Main Street in Zelienople for over 100 years, including building and managing the Strand Theater. He was a member of St. Gregory’s Church in Zelienople. He served in the National Guard for a number of years. Jerry enjoyed fishing, gardening, bird watching and going to the casino.
In addition to his wife, Gloria, survivors include two sons, Dave and Michael Sapienza, both of Zelienople; daughter, Jennifer Sapienza of New Castle; two step-children, Ron Port of Wexford and Stacey Hanna of Cleveland, Ohio; two brothers, David Sapienza of Virginia, Leo Sapienza of California; and five grandchildren.
Visitation will be held on Monday, February 8 from 5 to 7 pm at the Marshall Funeral Home, 200 Fountain Ave. Ellwood City. Family and friends will also be received on Tuesday from 10 am until the time of the Blessing service at 11 am. Interment will follow in St. Gregory Cemetery in Zelienople.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Light of Life Rescue Mission, 913 Western Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15233
Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com.
Jerry, is a wonderful guy. The whole family has my deepest condolences and sorrow. I always enjoyed running into Jerry at Gunshows. He would sit at my table, and we would talk for hours about nothing,or maybe sell or trade something. And this went on for the last 40 years. He will be sadly missed by me. If I can help in any way, my number is still in the phone book.
Thank you for such a nice message. I know he loved to talk with people. I will miss his stories.
Gloria, I am so sorry about the loss of Jerry, You have my deepest sympathies. When you need to talk I am here for you. Take care.
Thank you for thinking of us. Let’s stay in touch.
SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT JERRY’S PASSING. WE GREW UP TOGETHER IN ZELIENOPLE, PRESSED HIS CIDER, AND DID HIS TAXES. TAKE CARE.
TOM AND SALLY DAVIS
He always spoke of you and really missed your cider. Thank you for your thoughts.
Dear Gloria and family so sorry to hear of your loss. Jerry was always a friendly pleasant person. Thinking and you and your family
Our thoughts and Prayers are with you
John and Karolee
Thank you for thinking of us.
Gloria, We have never met but I wanted to extend my sympathy to you and the family. Jerry was my second cousin and it’s been a few years since seeing him.
Take care and prayers sent to all.
Colette Sapienza Kuli