Gerald "Jerry" David Schiappa, 66, of Scranton, died unexpectedly Tuesday at home. His wife is Teresa Osborne. They would have celebrated 33 years of marriage in September.
Born in Scranton, son of the late Aniello and Josephine Capozucca Schiappa, he was a graduate of Scranton Technical High School. Jerry was a lifelong resident of Scranton, and his career was as varied as the cadre of friends and family that he gathered during 66 years of life. From working at Andrew Brown's Drug Store and Home Health Care Center to Dailey Resources and Save-A-Lot, from Harrington's Beer Distributors to Commonwealth Ambulance, and ultimately Pennsylvania Ambulance, the common thread was people. No one was a stranger to Jerry. He loved people and they loved him. We can only wish that we all have just a fraction of the heart, kindness, and impact on others that he had.
Jerry also loved music. Everything about it. From Elton John to Jimmy Buffett to Bruce Springsteen and everything in between. He knew every word to every song. He danced enthusiastically at weddings, on the beach, and even when no one was watching; and he sang with all his heart whether he was in the car, the shower, at a tavern, or a concert with family and friends. A slight second to music was his love of sports. From playing tennis, softball, or basketball to watching his beloved Pittsburgh Pirates, Dallas Cowboys, and Indiana Hoosiers, he put his heart and soul into rooting for his favorite teams and players.
Most of all Jerry loved his family and his friends who were like family. They were the center of his life. He quietly checked on everyone via texts, calls, and visits. For Jerry, the bond to his family was not one of blood, it was one of respect and joy in each other's life.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sister, Nancyann Schiappa of Scranton; brothers-in-law, Bill (Laura) Osborne of Scranton, Jay (Marion) Osborne of Old Forge, Mike (Monica) Osborne of Clarks Summit, and Tom (Maura) Osborne of Mount Cobb; his nieces, Amy, Olivia, Grace, Michael Anne, Riley and Brittany Osborne; and his nephews, Aaron, Andy and Joe Osborne; his brothers from another mother, Dan, Jim, Tom and Chris Lunney; and many loving cousins and friends whom he treasured beyond measure.
He was preceded in death by his in-laws, John J. and Bette Kane Osborne; sister-in-law, Anne Osborne; and an uncle, Valentino Capozucca.
The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Peter's Cathedral (315 Wyoming Ave., Scranton) by Rev. Thomas M. Muldowney. Friends may call Monday, July 8, 2024 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Neil Regan Funeral Home, 1900 Pittston Ave., Scranton.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to Telespond Senior Services, 1200 Saginaw St., Scranton, PA 18505.