Constantine Michael Gioia

In Loving Memory of Constantine M. Gioia It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Constantine M. Gioia, lovingly known as Stan, a man with a beautiful soul who touched the lives of everyone he met. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Constantine was the cherished son of Michael and Sophia and the beloved brother of Anna. His upbringing in vibrant Brooklyn shaped the caring and compassionate man he would become.
At 18, Constantine answered the call to serve his country, joining the Army as a Morse code interceptor. His dedication to duty and service continued when he left the military to become a firefighter with the New York City Fire Department. He found his purpose in helping others and spent every day of his career saving lives, embodying the bravery and selflessness that defined his character. Stan was more than his remarkable career.
He was a devoted and loving father to three beautiful children, Lisa, Michael, and Brianna, always placing their happiness and well-being above all else. He poured his heart into being the kind of dad every child dreams of-caring, compassionate, and always present.
Stan's heart grew even fuller when he became a grandfather to Sophia and Susan. His love for his granddaughters was boundless. Whether sharing stories, laughing over family meals, or celebrating their milestones, he cherished every moment with them.
Thirty-one years ago, Constantine married the love of his life, Valeska Tarantini. Their marriage was a testament to true love and partnership, a blessed union filled with joy, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Soulmates in every sense of the word, Stan and Val shared an extraordinary bond, growing together through every season of life.
At 49, Stan faced a life-altering challenge when he suffered a heart attack while on duty. Despite being told he wouldn't live long due to heart disease, he defied the odds, blessing his family with 30 more wonderful years. Even while battling congestive heart failure, Stan never let his illness define him. He continued to care for everyone around him, offering his strength and love without hesitation.
Stan's zest for life was unmatched. He loved food, wine, and the joy of entertaining those he cared for. A master of the grill, his steaks and burgers were legendary, and his gatherings were always filled with warmth and laughter.
To know Stan was to know kindness, compassion, and love in its purest form. He was sweet, considerate, and gentle, a man who gave endlessly to his family and friends. His love for Val was infinite, their marriage a beautiful adventure filled with cherished memories.
Stan will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a light in the lives of so many, a man who made the world better simply by being in it. To love him was a gift, and his presence was a blessing we will carry in our hearts forever.
Rest in peace, dearest Stan. You will live on in the love you shared, the legacy you left behind, and the countless lives you touched.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 13, 2025, in the Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home chapel.
Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.