UPDATE: John “Jack” Scirocco, a cherished educator and community pillar, has passed away at the age of 84. He died peacefully on November 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family in Scotia, NY.
Jack Scirocco dedicated over 50 years of his life to education, profoundly impacting the lives of countless children. Born on September 19, 1941, in Schenectady, NY, Jack was the son of the late John and Constance Scirocco. He graduated from Mont Pleasant High School in 1959 and earned his bachelor’s degree from Niagara University in 1963, followed by a master’s degree from The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY.
Jack’s commitment to service began when he joined the Army National Guard in 1963 and later the Army Reserves, providing a foundation of dedication that extended into his teaching career. He met his beloved wife, Carol Malizia, on February 12, 1965, at DiAmante’s restaurant in Schenectady. They married on June 25, 1966, and together raised three daughters, building a life centered on love and family.
As an educator, Jack started at Mount Carmel Elementary School before spending 27 years teaching third grade at Fort Edward Union Free Elementary School. After retiring from public education, he continued to nurture young minds at Lil’ Bits Daycare, a family business he established with Carol, extending his legacy in education for an extraordinary total of 50 years.
Jack’s passion for sports was evident throughout his life. He was a proud member of the 1954 Little League World Series Championship team, and he continued to support baseball and basketball well into adulthood. His love for the Yankees and the friendships he forged with teammates were hallmarks of his life.
Beyond sports, Jack enjoyed woodworking, music, and cherished family vacations on the beach in Maine. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carol Scirocco; daughters Michele Moynihan, Mia Scirocco, and Marisa Benoit; grandsons Cameron and Kieran Rhodes; and sisters Mary Jane Matousek and Madeline Chirico.
Visitation will take place on Monday, 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. Interment will be at Park Cemetery in Scotia, NY.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Jack’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children. Arrangements are handled by Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, with condolences available online at Jack’s Book of Memories.
This urgent update on Jack Scirocco’s passing highlights the deep love and respect held for him in the community. As friends, family, and former students gather to honor his legacy, his impact on education and the lives of many will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
