Beloved Educator John “Jack” Scirocco Passes Away at 84

John “Jack” Scirocco, a respected educator and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, at the age of 84. Surrounded by his loving family, Jack’s legacy is marked by his commitment to education and his profound impact on the lives of countless children.

Born on September 19, 1941, in Schenectady, New York, Jack was the son of the late John and Constance (Leone) Scirocco. He completed his education at Mont Pleasant High School in 1959 before earning a bachelor’s degree from Niagara University in 1963. He later pursued a master’s degree at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY. Jack began his military service with the Army National Guard in New York and New Jersey in 1963, transitioning to the Army Reserves in 1965.

Jack’s personal life flourished when he met Carol Malizia on February 12, 1965, at DiAmante’s restaurant in Schenectady. The couple married on June 25, 1966, and together they raised three daughters, emphasizing the values of love, faith, and family.

A dedicated educator, Jack spent his career molding young minds. He began teaching as a sixth-grade instructor at Mount Carmel Elementary School and continued in the Schenectady School District for five years. His most notable tenure was at Fort Edward Union Free Elementary School, where he taught third grade for 27 years. After retiring from public education with a remarkable 33 years of service, Jack continued to influence children’s lives by joining Carol at their family daycare, Lil’ Bits, for an additional 17 years. In total, Jack dedicated an extraordinary 50 years to the field of education.

Jack’s passion for sports, particularly baseball and basketball, was evident throughout his life. He played a pivotal role in his team’s victory at the 1954 Little League World Series Championship in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, an achievement that earned recognition at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY. His love for baseball extended beyond childhood; he was a lifelong New York Yankees fan, proudly donning his Yankees cap. Additionally, Jack was part of the “Starting Five” on the 1959 Championship Basketball Team at Mount Pleasant High School, cherishing the lifelong friendships he formed with teammates.

Outside of sports, Jack had a passion for woodworking and music, with family beach vacations in Maine being among his most treasured memories. His family was his pride and joy, and he is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carol (Malizia) Scirocco; daughters Michele (John, IV) Moynihan, Mia Scirocco, and Marisa (Christopher) Benoit; grandsons Cameron and Kieran Rhodes; and sisters Mary Jane Matousek and Madeline Chirico. He was predeceased by his brother, Peter Scirocco.

Family and friends may pay their respects on November 10, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home in Ballston Lake, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Glenville, NY, with interment at Park Cemetery in Scotia.

In honor of Jack’s memory, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children. Arrangements have been entrusted to Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, where condolences can be shared at www.TownleyWheelerFH.com.