John Francis "Jack" Roselli

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved John Francis Roselli, who lived an extraordinary life of 102 years. Surrounded by family members and loved ones, John passed away on September 27, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and dedication.

Born in South Philadelphia on February 8, 1922, to parents pre-deceased John and Mary, brothers Tom and Bill, and sisters Nan and his surviving sister Mim McDevitt. Jack is survived by his wife Edith, with whom he was married for nearly 74 years. Edith was his treasured companion throughout his life and together they had two children, four grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Survived by his daughter Diane, nee (Roselli) and her husband Jim Gill; his son Jim and wife Francie; and his grandchildren Ryan Gill and wife Elyse Estrada, Devon and Mike Rowland, Erica and Jon Tamarin, and Matthew Roselli. Jack is also blessed to have three beautiful great-granddaughters, Madison Rose, Camryn May, and Gianna Marie. Jack and his wife Edith spent their last seven years in their cherished community of Maris Grove, Glen Mills PA where they found community and friendships and enjoyed going out to dinner every night.

John, who was known to most as “Jack,” was more than a witness to history—he lived it. When war broke out in Europe, Jack enlisted alongside his brothers, serving his country with honor. He spent three years, from 1942 through 1945, with the Army Air Corp, primarily stationed at RAF Tibenham in England, working on trucks, buses, and aircraft; supporting Allied bombers that soared over mainland Europe. After the war ended, his duty did not, as he was sent to Africa to assist in the withdrawal of all the American troops stationed in the European theater.

Returning home, Jack met and married his wife Edith (Angelucci) Roselli, the love of his life who he met while working at General Electric. They settled in Broomall PA, where they lived for 50 plus years, had two children and were active members of the St. Pius X Community. Jack dedicated over 40 years to General Electric as an electrician, where he displayed unparalleled skill and tireless work ethic. He could fix anything, from a simple door handle to a car engine, and was admired for his ingenuity and dedication.

As a member of the Knights of Columbus De LaSalle Council, Jack played the saxophone and banjo in the string band, performing in numerous concerts and giving back to his community through service and fellowship. True to his Philly roots, Jack was a fan of all things Philadelphia sports, rarely missing a Phillies game on TV and passionately cheering his hometown teams – and would willingly give his sports commentary and opinions. Jack was an avid miniature train collector and built an expansive model train set in his basement, which captivated his young grandchildren for hours.

Together with his family, Jack enjoyed vacations in North Wildwood, trips to Italy and Switzerland, train rides through the Rocky Mountains and America’s vast National Parks, along with spending winters in Boynton Beach, Florida with his sister in-law Angela Masci and husband John.

Jack lived through a century of history, but his greatest accomplishments were the quiet, unspoken ways he touched the lives of those he loved. His toughness was unparalleled, but so too was his heart. He will be deeply missed by all, but his spirit and legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. Rest in peace, Jack, knowing that you were loved deeply, and your memory will always be cherished.

Family and friends are invited to his Viewing and Celebration of Life at St. Pius X Church at 220 Lawrence Rd, Broomall, Friday, October 4th. between 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM followed by his Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM. Interment immediately following at SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jack’s memory can be made to the “Maris Grove Scholars Fund”. Attention: Sarah Golden, Philanthropy Manager, 200 Maris Grove Way, Glen Mills, PA 19342.