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John Paolillo Obituary
One balmy night in the fall of 2000, an off-duty battalion chief, John Paolillo, stood outside an apartment fire on the Upper East Side when a police officer told everyone to clear the sidewalk. A reporter waited for Chief Paolillo, who was in street clothes, to flash his badge at the officer. But the chief just moved away.
He could be like that. Or not. When he was made captain of Engine 53 in East Harlem, he arrived at the firehouse with a few ideas on how things should run. The men gave him a nickname: Mussolini. But Chief Paolillo was a person big enough to realize an officer didn't need a heavy hand. The nickname was shortened: The Moose.
His theory on junior firefighters was that they should keep their mouths shut until they had enough years on the job to know a thing or two. He basked in company pride. Once a new firefighter stopped by Engine 53 before his first day and hopped on the rig when they got a call.
"So, how'd you get assigned to 53?" Chief Paolillo asked over the blaring siren. The new kid replied that, actually, it hadn't been his first choice. The driver slammed on the brakes. "Get out," Chief Paolillo said.
The Chief was impatient to save lives, and, at age 51, kept himself in top shape to do so. He brought firefighting manuals on vacation and read them on the beach. He ran marathons.
His younger brother, Joe, recalled once stopping by a firehouse with him to see a friend. A young firefighter they didn't know opened the door and greeted them curtly. Joe Paolillo waited for his brother to show his badge. But Chief Paolillo didn't.
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Sheila Kioskerides
March 1, 2025
Happy Birthday John, I think about you often. Please continue to watch over us. I love you and miss you so much, Your loving sister, Sheila
Diana
March 1, 2025
Another birthday in heaven. Rest in blessed peace and you will celebrate with our family until we meet again, watch over us.
XO
Sheila Kioskerides
March 1, 2025
Happy Birthday John, I think about you all of the time. I love you and miss you so much. Please watch over our family.
Florence
February 28, 2025
Happy Birthday John! Always in my heart!
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Diana
December 27, 2024
We miss you here with us again this Christmas. We will always stay together until we see you again.
Sheila Kioskerides
October 15, 2024
John I’m lighting this candle in your memory. May your eternal light continue to shine upon all of us. May your soul be at peace and never forgotten. I love you so much and there isn’t day that goes by that i don’t think about you and Joe. I love you
Diana Huff
October 13, 2024
"Oh if a man tried
To take his time on earth
And prove before he died
What one man´s life could be worth
I wonder what would happen
to this world"
Sheila Kioskerides
September 12, 2024
John,
In loving memory of a wonderful loving person, a loving son, a loving father, a loving husband and a loving brother. We will love you and miss you always.
Caroline Monaghan
September 11, 2024
John,
You were a member of Our Saviors in GWL. I remember your wife and two small children. Your daughter was named Ella. I think about you when I walk down "John´s Ladder", the street named in your honor, and every 911. Your bravery and dedication to others is remembered always. May you rest in peace
Diana
September 11, 2024
Another year has passed. It feels like a moment in time. You are missed but I know you are with all of our family. Until we are all together again, hug Joe for me. We will always be there to hear your name spoken.
Florence
September 11, 2024
It is hard to believe that 23 years have passed. You touched many lives. The memory of you remains in our hearts! Rest in peace!
Jeanne Schaefer
September 11, 2024
As I watch and listen to the names being solemnly read again this September 11th, memories of that horrific, sad day, 23 years ago, vividly return. Those who courageously run to help others when most would run the other way, are the true heroes of this world. Your family, your children, your friends, your colleagues......and you, most of all, John should be proud of the person you chose to be. Your unselfish soul, your bravery, your sacrifice ... always honored and remembered.
Diana
June 17, 2024
"You have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you."
John 16:22
Sheila Kioskerides
February 29, 2024
John I’m lighting this candle in your memory. May this eternal light shine forever. I love you and miss you so much. Happy Birthday.
Diana
February 28, 2024
Happy Birthday in heaven. You are always missed and never forgotten. Until we are all together again rest in blessed peace.
Florence
February 28, 2024
Happy Birthday John! Rest in peace!
Florence
September 12, 2023
Rest in Peace John! Always in my heart!
Diana
September 12, 2023
Just some of the FDNY names at the 9/11 memorial. Another heartbreaking ceremony. We will always be there to hear your name spoken and honor your memory as a true hero.
"No day shall ever erase you from the memory of time"
Diana
September 12, 2023
Sheila Kioskerides
September 11, 2023
Happy Anniversary in heaven John. I was at the World Trade Center today. I was thinking about you and how much I miss you. I love you, John. Please pray for us and continue to watch over our family. Your loving sister, Sheila
Diana
September 11, 2023
Diana
September 11, 2023
Diana
September 11, 2023
Another year has passed by my sorrow remains the same. I miss you here with us, until we are all together again in a better place, watch over us.
Sheila
September 11, 2023
HappyAnnivetsary John.
I was at the World Trade Center today. I was thinking about you and how much I miss you. I love you, John. Please pray for us and continue to watch over our family. Your loving sister, Sheila
Diana, John and Sheila
Sheila Kioskerides
March 1, 2023
Sheila your sister
Sheila Kioskerides
March 1, 2023
I love you John
Sheila Kioskerides
March 1, 2023
2/28/23
I'm lighting this candle in your memory. May this eternal light shine forever in your soul and mine. We will always be bounded by the love that brothers and sisters share.
Happy Birthday John you are always on my mind. I love and miss you so much. Watch over us and keep us safe.
Florence
February 28, 2023
Happy Birthday John! You are sorely missed and loved!
Diana
February 28, 2023
Happy Birthday in heaven. We miss you here with us.
Diana
December 25, 2022
Merry Christmas in heaven.
Florence Tuzzi
September 11, 2022
The memories of you remain in my heart forever! Love you! Rest In Peace!
Diana
September 11, 2022
Diana
September 11, 2022
Diana
September 11, 2022
Miss you both.
Jeanne Schaefer
September 11, 2022
Memories always surround me on this solemn day, as I remember the bravest person I've ever known.
Honored and deeply humbled to reflect..... and to proudly remember..... John and his brother Joe....two courageous, selfless, giving, gentle men of service.
Never forgotten. Always revered.
Sheila
September 11, 2022
Hi John. Today makes 21 years since you left us on that catastrophic day at the World Trade Center. The memory of you will forever stay in my heart. I miss you so much. Joes anniversary was on September 9th he only made 3 years and died from a 911 cancer. This is so hard for me to digest knowing I lost my only two brothers. My life without the both of you has been very hard. Please watch over us and keep us safe.
Your loving sister, Sheila
Diana Huff
September 10, 2022
"And think of him as living
In the hearts of those he touched...
For nothing loved is ever lost
And he was loved so much"
Diana
February 28, 2022
Happy Birthday in heaven.
Florence
February 28, 2022
Happy Birthday John!
Sheila Kioskerides
December 26, 2021
Merry Christmas John. I think about you often especially including holidays and birthdays. You’ll never be forgotten. Watch over our family. I love you so much. Love Sheila
Diana Huff
December 25, 2021
Merry Christmas in heaven. We love & miss you always.
Michele DeLouise
September 12, 2021
Never forgotten...
Florence Tuzzi
September 11, 2021
Gone, yet always here!
You have left us with memories that will never fade!
Jeanne Schaefer
September 11, 2021
Your brilliant light continues to shine through the darkness of the many passing years. Many are thinking of you, today, 20 long years later..... holding your loving, brave spirit as our guiding light. We remember the strength of your generous spirit, your moral sense of decency and character, your gentle, courageous soul..... always.
Sheila Kioskerides
September 10, 2021
Happy Anniversary in heaven. I’m lighting this candle in your memory. May the lite of this candle continue to shine forever. I love you and miss you.
Together in heaven
Diana
September 10, 2021
Go forth, farewell for life, dearest brothers;
Proclaim afar the sweet name of God.
We meet again one day in heaven’s land of blessing.
Farewell brothers, farewell.
“Departure Hymn”
michael mcquade
March 1, 2021
happy birthday, moose,,,
Florence Tuzzi
February 28, 2021
Happy Birthday John! Always in my thoughts with love!
Diana Huff
February 28, 2021
Happy Birthday in heaven. Miss you here with us but I know you are with all our family. Until we are all together again. Hug Joe for me.
Sheila Kioskerides
February 27, 2021
Happy Birthday, John. I find myself missing you every single day of my life. Please keep us safe John. I love you.
Diana Huff
December 30, 2020
Another Christmas has passed. We miss you and keep you in our hearts & memories. Watch over us. Until we are all together again.
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Sheila Kioskerides
September 13, 2020
Grief is very hard, but our special memories sometimes help us cope. I miss you so much, John. Life is getting harder and harder without everyone. Keep us safe and pray for us. Your loving sister.
Florence
September 11, 2020
Rest In Peace John! You have left an indelible mark on the lives you have touched! A hero that will never ever be forgotten!
Jeanne Schaefer
September 11, 2020
Remembering always ..... a true hero, a courageous man, a generous, gentle soul.
Together in heaven
September 11, 2020
Diana Huff
September 11, 2020
John,
Love and miss you. You will always be with us in spirit until we are all together again, keep Joe close.
mike , pam , mc quade
February 29, 2020
happy birthday, john, miss you,
Diana Huff
February 28, 2020
Happy Birthday in heaven. Love and miss you
Florence Tuzzi
February 28, 2020
Dearest John,
Happy Birthday! Forever in my heart!
FMT
Sheila Kioskerides
January 1, 2020
Happy New Year John,
Life is not the same without you. I think about you everyday. I miss you and love you so much. Pray for us John and guide us. Our family is getting smaller as the years move on.
The Kindred Family
December 5, 2019
Our continued thoughts of heartfelt sympathy we send to your family. No words will ever remove the pain of losing someone dearly loved. May God's support and your loving memories be of some comfort with each new day. John is still sadly missed but remembered with love and deep appreciation.
Jeanne Schaefer
September 11, 2019
As others ran from the flames, you courageously went forward, and climbed towards an unfolding horror. Doing the work you believed in....a job.... a calling.... you loved with all your heart. Protecting others. Hoping and praying to save lives.
Today, we again honor you John. We pause with gratitude once again on this sacred day, to remember your selflessness, rare courage, integrity .... formidable memories of a most honorable man. Never forgetting .... we honor your bravery, your strength of character, your being..... your life.
Florence T
September 11, 2019
Dearest John - A true Hero!
Always loved
Never forgotten
Forever missed!
FMT
Sheila Kioskerides
February 28, 2019
Happy Birthday John;
I miss you and love you so much. Your memory will last forever in my heart. Please pray for our family.
I think about you every day.
F T
February 27, 2019
Happy Birthday John! You are truly missed and will never be forgotten!
John M Paolillo
Sheila Kioskerides
September 21, 2018
North Tower Memorial Fountain
Sheila Kioskerides
September 21, 2018
911 Memorial
Sheila Kioskerides
September 21, 2018
Sheila Kioskerides
September 21, 2018
Happy Anniversary John. I think about you often, I miss our family and you. Life always seems to put us in a circle. So much has changed since your passing. One day I know we will all be together again. My heart is still broken without you. The pain seems to get worse as the years move on. Protect our family John. Keep us safe until we meet again. Your loving sister.
Virginia Slater
September 20, 2018
I remember when Grandma Liz was taking care of my Linda, John would often visit, sometimes bringing his laundry with him. Little did I realize then what a joy it was for a mother to be allowed to do laundry for an adult son. Thank you, John, for giving me a glimpse into my own future when I would be doing likewise for my own son. I think of the Paolillo family often with love. You are a part of my life, fond memories, and stories I enjoy telling.
Diana Huff
September 19, 2018
It doesn't feel like 17 yrs have passed when you hear all the names being read at the memorial. The pain and grief are still there like that day. But you are remembered for your courage and strength and the wonderful person that you were. We miss & love you. And I know we will see you again with all our family in heaven.
Never forget.
Tom H
September 11, 2018
Today, 09/11/2018, ( 17 years ...) we remember you John. Thank you for courage and service ... We will never forget. Wishing all the best to your family and friends. Much regards.
Jeannie Schaefer
September 11, 2018
Remembering a hero.... whose character and courage..... continue to shine and inspire.
Tuffi
September 11, 2018
A true hero! You are always in my heart!
Love you!
Florence T
February 28, 2018
Happy Birthday John!
Always in my heart!
Elizabeth Paolillo my mom
Sheila Kioskerides
February 28, 2018
John M Paolillo
Sheila Kioskerides
February 28, 2018
Sheila Kioskerides
February 28, 2018
Happy Birthday John.
I think about you all of the time. I miss you and love you so much. Keep watching over us and pray for us. Your loving sister, sheila
Diana Huff
February 28, 2018
Happy Birthday in heaven. You are always in my thoughts and prayers. I know you are surrounded by the love of God and our family with you today and always. Watch over us here, until we are all together again.
XO
Diana Huff
December 25, 2017
Another year of missing you at Christmas. You are with all our family in a better place. Watch over us until we are all together again. Merry Christmas in Heaven.
Diana
Jeannie Schaefer
September 11, 2017
Never, ever.... forgotten. Your courage, your heart, your generosity of spirit, your joyous and kind ways...always remembered and held closely.... in many hearts today.
Michele DeLouise
September 11, 2017
Dear John,
Another year
Another tear...
Donna will never find another love like yours-
Jake and Ella give her life it's only course.
They're doing well- you'd be so proud!
After all they've been through- all are wowed!
Jake's learning the security industry and Ella's in school.
They are polite and confident- they are very cool!
John, continue to guide them from the other side-
They are your legacy-
You are forever tied.
VIRGINIA SLATER
September 10, 2017
Thinking of John, Martin, Elizabeth, Joe and Sheila on this sad anniversary. You are always remembered and always loved..
Sheila Kioskerides
September 10, 2017
Hi John
16 years have gone by and it all seems like this catastrophic event just happened. I think about you all of the time. I miss you and love you so much. Pray for our family John. Guide us always. I'm so sorry that I won't be at your memorial tomorrow, my prayers will always be with you. Your loving sister.
Erin Nichols
September 9, 2017
I climbed in your memory today. I am thankful for all you have. And to your family my prays will always be with you.
S.J. Friscia III
September 30, 2016
In Memory with
Honor & Respect.
Virginia Slater
September 16, 2016
We had a special service at our church in Saranac Lake, NY and in our long moment of silence, I reflected upon the the Paolillo family, a family of people with great hearts. Our connection continued even after my daughter Linda and I moved away to the Adirondack Mountains.
We will never forget.
Diana Huff
September 13, 2016
John
15 years is a long time but it feels like a moment. We miss you but know that you are at eternal peace with all our family in heaven. Pray for us here, until we are all together again. We will never forget.
Sheila Kioskerides
September 12, 2016
September 12, 2016
John I'm lighting a candle in your memory to shine for all eternity. I love you.
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