John Anastasio

John Leo Anastasio, Jr., 86, of Dewitt, NY, passed away at his home with both his wife and his cat by his side on Saturday, December 20. Born on July 27, 1939, in New Haven, CT (he would want you to know that Wooster Street in New Haven is home to the best pizza in the US), John was a devoted husband to his wife Jean and a loving father to his sons, Gary and David.

Growing up, John developed a love of opera and music from attending performances at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City with his Uncle Gaetano, who would also take him to see his beloved Yankees in the Bronx. At Southern Connecticut State College, John played football and earned a Bachelor’s degree in 1961, where he met the love of his life and future wife, Jean. Following college, he taught high school science at North Branford High School, while also coaching baseball. John ultimately earned a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from Syracuse University in 1975 and went on to hold many positions in teaching and administration.

As an early adopter of technology and with a passion for photography, John preserved a lifetime of moments on film and video. Beyond what he captured, he will be remembered most for his kindness and generosity, and for the love and devotion he showed to his friends and family, most notably his sons and his grandchildren. His presence - in the dugout as a little league coach, or on the sidelines of every one of his sons’ high school and college games - was a staple, and the compassion and hospitality he provided for everyone in his life will truly be his legacy. He was the quintessential “Great Guy.”

He is preceded in death by his parents John and Philomena Anastasio, his sister Theresa Montesano and his beloved daughter-in-law Pamela Anastasio. He is survived by his wife Jean and their cat Cuddles, his brother Michael (Carol) Anastasio, his sons Gary and David (Holly), grandchildren Tyler, Laura, Mayde, and Emily, as well as many friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, December 29th from 3:00 to 6:00pm at Burns-Garfield Funeral Home in Syracuse. Funeral service will be on Tuesday, December 30th at 10:00am at Holy Cross Church in Dewitt with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to CNY Cat Coalition, PO Box 6182, Syracuse, NY 13217.

We find comfort in knowing that John’s legacy lives on through the kindness he shared and the memories we will cherish forever.