John Edward Anastasia

John Edward Anastasia peacefully entered eternal life on September 1, 2025. He was 85 years old.

John was born on February 6, 1940 and was raised in Philadelphia, PA. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, John Joseph Anastasia and Ruth Caroline (Forrest) Anastasia, his brother Edward, and his brother Gerald. He is survived by his brother, Michael (Cindy) and their son; his 3 children; 3 step-children; 4 grandchildren; 5 step-grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

John proudly served the United States of America in the U.S. Navy (active duty and reserves) aboard the U.S.S. Sierra (AD-18), a Dixie-class destroyer tender. Enlisting in 1957, he attained the rank of 3rd Class Petty Officer before being honorably discharged in 1963. While serving his country, he sailed to the Mediterranean and Guantanamo Bay, as well as other deployments.

As a young man, John’s mother got him a job at a local pharmacy, being paid to make deliveries, stock shelves, and take the owner’s child to the movies. Early in his life, John worked as a Milkman for Harbison’s Dairy, delivering milk and eggs to customers’ doorsteps. Most of his life he was employed at Stokes (a division of Pennwalt) as an Electrician. Early in his career at Stokes John served as a Union Representative. He was hardworking and a good provider for his family.

John had a quick wit, and tenderly cared of those he loved. If you knew him, you knew his stories and his jokes because you heard them more than once. You also knew a few of his favorite singers were John Gary, Mario Lanza and Al Martino. John leaned on his Roman Catholic faith in good times and in bad, and believed in the power of prayer. He will be affectionately remembered by those who loved him and dearly missed every single day.

Private services will be held to celebrate John’s life. Friends wishing to honor him may consider a donation to Horizon House. (www.hhinc.org/behavioral-health-services)

Click Here to Watch St David Funeral Mass from September 2025

Click Here to Watch Funeral Military Honors at Washington Crossing National Cemetery

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