John F. Carney Sr. 1935-2024
CANFIELD — It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Francis Carney Sr., 89. He passed away peacefully, Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife, his rock of 67 years, Marie, along with his family. He was a man of remarkable strength, who faced adversity with courage and dignity, never letting life’s difficulties define him and always putting others before himself.
John was born April 30, 1935, in Youngstown, to James Aloysius and Josephine Lucille Tobin Carney. He graduated from East High School in 1953, where he met the love of his life, Marie DeVito. They were married Feb. 16, 1957, and built a beautiful life together.
John and Marie were longtime members of St. Brendan Parish in Youngstown and later St. Michael Roman Catholic Parish in Canfield.
John proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War from 1953 to 1955. After returning home, he began a career as a foreman on the Erie Lackawanna Railway. He retired after 35 years as the superintendent of transportation at WCI Steel in Warren.
His true legacy, however, extends far beyond his career. John loved God, his family, golf and coaching.
John shared his love for sports through his many years of coaching. He coached boys’ football and basketball at St. Brendan School and both girls’ and boys’ basketball at St. Rose School. He also coached the boys’ baseball league for many years at Mill Creek Little League. His coaching was never just about the game; he taught the values of teamwork, perseverance and integrity. He made a lasting impression on many young athletes, helping shape them into not only better players but also better individuals.
John’s passion for golf was equally profound. He could always be found on the golf course at Mill Creek, enjoying the game he loved with his friends and family. He played in golf leagues at Knoll Run and St. Dominic’s, where his competitive spirit and love for camaraderie were cherished by all who played with him.
John was a deeply devoted family man whose unconditional love for Marie and his family was a shining example of partnership and devotion. His unwavering support for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was the foundation on which his family was built. He was always present for his family, never missing a milestone, no matter how big or small. Even during times of struggle, his love and encouragement were steadfast. He taught his family to persevere through life’s challenges with grace and resilience. He was a man of exceptional kindness and patience, and provided constant encouragement.
Above all, John’s legacy of love, faith and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. John was a man whose life was defined by his enduring love for his family, his commitment to his faith and his dedication to helping others. His memory will be cherished forever and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Marie; his nine children, Linda (Mark) Borton, Debbie (Bobby) Russo, John (Susan) Carney, Anthony Carney, Timothy (Debbie) Carney, Kathy (Dave) Evans, James Carney, Brian (Laurie) Carney and Maureen (Joel) Beardman; grandchildren, Erica and Kyle (Heather) Borton, Jennifer (Dave) Everett, Jessica (Andrew) Amodio and Megan (Greg) Tanner, Ceara (Fady) Baky and Francesca Carney, Anthony Jr. and Nicholas Carney, Samantha and Brianna Carney, Tanya and James Evans, Madison Carney, Vincent and Michael Carney; great-grandchildren, Eli and Isla Borton, David, Michael and Zachary Everett, Mia, Layla, Amelia and Maria Amodio, Emerson, Chase and Avery Tanner; and his two brothers, Patrick (Mary Ellen) Carney and Michael (Linda) Carney.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Josephine Carney; two grandchildren, Christopher and Maria Evans; and his sisters, Ann Williamson, Ellen Devine and Mary Borosko.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Michael Devine, John’s beloved nephew, for the compassionate care and love he provided throughout John’s life. We are truly thankful for his kindness and devotion. Special thanks also, to the staff at the Hope Cancer Center in Boardman, as well as Dr. Khalid, Dr. Heron and all the doctors and nurses who provided exceptional care.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate John’s life with a Mass 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024, at St. Michael Roman Catholic Parish in Canfield, with the Very Rev. Monsignor John Zuraw presiding.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The Carney family will make a monetary donation to Hospice of the Valley in John’s memory.
Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family and support via phone call, text, email or may visit the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com.
(special notice)