Thomas A Scarnecchia

Thomas A. Scarnecchia, a lifelong public servant, successful restaurateur, and devoted family man of Niles, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the age of 84, at Shepherd of the Valley Nursing Home in Liberty.
Born in Massillon, Ohio, on October 5, 1941, 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 December 13, 2012. His faith was also a cornerstone of his life as he was a devoted member of Saint Pope John XXIII Parish-Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Niles.
Tom's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his loving children, Thomas Jr.( Amanda Ensman) and her 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'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 Café in downtown Niles, Cherry's on 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, 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 Thursday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles, where prayers will be conducted at 6:30 PM.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday at 10:00 AM at Saint Pope John XXIII Parish-Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church Niles. Family and friends are asked to meet directly at the church the day of the funeral.
Committal services will be private at Niles City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that material contributions be sent to Cadence Care Network at www.cadencecarenetwork.org or by mail at P.O. Box 683 Niles, Ohio 44446
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