Thomas A. Scarnecchia 1941-2025

Born Oct. 5, 1941, in Massillon, Tom was the son of the late Harold and Mary Sue Danes Scarnecchia. A proud and enthusiastic graduate of Niles McKinley High School in 1959, Tom’s dedication to his community began early and never wavered.

On April 27, 1963, Tom married the love of his life, Shirley Ehrenberg Scarnecchia, and they shared many cherished years until her passing on Dec. 13, 2012.

His faith was a cornerstone of his life as he was a devoted member of St. Pope John XXIII Parish-Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.

Tom’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his loving children, Thomas Jr. (Amanda Ensman) and Amanda’s son, Daniel Freeman; and his daughter, Christine Scarnecchia; as well as his cherished grandchildren, Robert McBride Jr. and Mary Beth McBride. Tom was proud of his deep roots and held great affection for his many aunts, uncles and cousins in the extended Danes family.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Lewis Scarnecchia; and his sister, Marilyn Williams.

Tom will be profoundly missed and remembered for his generosity, his remarkable culinary talent, his infectious sense of humor and his extraordinary dedication to his family and the City of Niles.

Tom’s entrepreneurial spirit and passion for serving others were evident from a young age. His very first job, selling Cutco knives in high school, demonstrated his commitment to generosity, as he used the money earned to host a Christmas party for children in need — a theme of giving that defined his entire life.

Together with his mother, Tom launched his extensive culinary career at Scarnecchia’s Catering in Niles. Over the decades, he became a pillar of the local dining scene, opening and managing numerous beloved establishments. His ventures included The Victory Cafe in downtown Niles, Cherry’s Top of the Mall, Sandalini’s Restaurant, the Strouss Department Store Restaurant in Youngstown, The Executive Inn Restaurant and Hotel, Scarnecchia’s Pizza, Applewood Gardens, and World of Fitness

It would be difficult to find a person in the Niles area whose life hadn’t been touched by Tom’s cooking or his warm hospitality. Beyond the delicious food, Tom provided countless opportunities, employing and mentoring many individuals through his various businesses.

Tom’s commitment to public service ran as deep as his love for cooking. He dedicated himself to the City of Niles throughout his life, holding key positions and leaving an indelible mark on local government. He began his service at a young age, becoming the youngest safety director ever appointed under Mayor William Thorpe. He also served as a city councilman and ran for the office of state senator. Tom later contributed to local education as the Niles City School District food supervisor. In the culmination of his life of service, Tom was elected mayor of Niles in 2016.

His devotion to the people of Niles was unmatched, driven by an unwavering love for his community and its residents.

Tom will be profoundly missed and remembered for his generosity, his remarkable culinary talent, his infectious sense of humor and his extraordinary dedication to his family and the City of Niles.

Friends may call 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, at the Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles, where prayers will be conducted at 6:30 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, at St. Pope John XXIII Parish-Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Niles. Family and friends are asked to meet directly at the church the day of the funeral.

Committal services will be private in Niles City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that material contributions be sent to Cadence Care Network, www.cadencecarenetwork.org, or by mail at P.O. Box 683, Niles, OH 44446.

Arrangements are being handled by the Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles. Family and friends can visit www.josephrossifuneralhome.com to view the full obituary and send condolences to Tom’s family.

(special notice)