Entrepreneur and natural salesman, Joe Merolillo's love of life didn't end with his death on June 15, 2021, at the age of 77, after a courageous battle with cancer.  His loved ones will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives by being kind to others.

He was born December 12, 1943, in Youngstown, Ohio, and went on to attend Struthers High School, Struthers, Ohio.

Joe joined the Marines at age 17 and dedicated his life to Corps and country, creating relationships with his brethren that would last a lifetime.

The simplest pleasures in life brought joy to Joe. He loved spending an evening with friends, inviting everyone to enjoy a cocktail, as well as golf and fine cigars. Joe had an extraordinary ability to find happiness in his daily activities. His gracious personality was appreciated by all those he met.

Joe is survived by his partner, Sandra Gilliland; his children, Kimberly Narkum, Monica (John) Grachanin, and Andrew Merolillo; siblings, Pete Merolillo, Sr., Rosie (Pat) O'Brien, Christina (Steve) Forbes, Tony (Lori) Merolillo, Sr., Diane Pezzuto Merolillo; daughter-in-law, Cathy Merolillo; six grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Joseph A. Merolillo III; and parents, Joseph A. and Edith (nee Guerrieri) Merolillo, Sr.

Joe's cremains will be placed in the Arlington National Cemetery Columbarium, Arlington, Virginia, at a future date.