Francis Sapienza
Francis Gerald “Jerry” Sapienza, 78, of Ellwood City, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, Feb. 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 Feb. 15, 2009.
Jerry was a lifelong entrepreneur, which included planning and developing a housing complex, operating Sapienza Supermarket, 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 stepchildren, Ron Port of Wexford and Stacey Hanna of Cleveland, Ohio; two brothers, David Sapienza of Virginia and Leo Sapienza of California; and five grandchildren.Sapienza — Visitation for Francis Gerald “Jerry” Sapienza, who died Wed., Feb. 3, 2021, will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at the Marshall Funeral Home, 200 Fountain Ave., Ellwood City.Family and friends will also be received from 10 a.m. Tuesday until the time of the blessing service at 11 a.m.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.
