John Anthony DeCarlo, 83, of E. Lutton St., passed away on 11/4/26 at Avalon Care Center, after an extended illness. John is preceded in death by his parents, Peter Anthony DeCarlo and Mildred Lucille DeCarlo (Cipriano). He is survived by two sisters, Mary Ann DeCarlo of New Castle, and Carmine DeCarlo of Grove City, PA.

After graduating from New Castle High School in 1960, John went on to study engineering at Youngstown State University for two years. He wore many hats in the work force: shoe sales at Thom McAn, insurance sales for Banker’s Life and Casualty, owner and operator of Dee Construction company, and for many years, his dad’s right-hand man while running the Alibi Bar in Beaver Falls.

John is recognized by friends and family as a man with a “colorful” personality. He had the gift of being able to craft and tell a creative story that often left his listeners wondering what parts of the story were true, and what parts were fabricated. John always kept us guessing. He certainly was an engaging, animated, and entertaining, storyteller.

With regard to hobbies, John loved horses and horse racing most of all. His mathematical mind and his knowledge of reading the statistics of a racing form, motivated him to make many “educated bets” over the years. He loved to beat the odds, and oftentimes did, except when it came to COPD. He was a huge Yankees fan and loved the Steelers (when they were winning). He appreciated the simple things in life like climbing into his truck each morning to meet his buddies at Mickey D’s while his dog, Becca, waited patiently in the driver’s seat. This was heaven to John, and we can only pray that it carries over to the other side.

Above all things that John cherished, he loved his family and friends most of all. He was a textbook example of the “first born Italian son” whose mother thought he could walk on water and whose father thought he could lasso the moon. He was a caregiver for both of his parents, each of whom was able to live, and die, at home because of his dedication and love.

“Big John” will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, his consistent generosity, his mischievous smile, his singing like Elvis, and his steadfast devotion to friends and family. Rest in peace brother and know that you are loved forever.

Visitation will be held Monday, November 9, 2026, from 2 PM to 4 PM at the William F. & Roger M. DeCarbo Funeral Home, 926 Cunningham Avenue. A funeral service will be celebrated Monday, November 9, 2026 at 4:00 PM at the William F. DeCarbo Memorial Chapel. Pastor Domenick Cestrone will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, one of John’s favorite charities. You can dedicate your gift in honor of John at www.stjude.org.