John Paul Di Dio, 62, of Hornell passed away Friday evening (June 12, 2026) at St. James Hospital in Hornell after a short battle with cancer.
John was the son of Ambrose Di Dio and Margaret (Messina) Di Dio. He was predeceased by his daughter, Autumn Di Dio, Feb. 2024; his mother Margaret, Aug. 2025 and his father, Ambrose, May 2026.
John was a fun-loving man with a loud and boisterous laugh that everyone knew and loved. John was always there with a helping hand to a friend in need, even if he had no idea what he was doing. Despite suffering a traumatic brain injury at the age of 15 he never let that stop him and worked several different jobs, from postal worker to meatcutter. John loved to work outside especially in his garden. John knew everyone in Hornell and everyone knew John. He would greet the men with a strong handshake and the women always with a hug and kiss on the cheek. John was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and never missed a game.
John is survived by his loving girlfriend of 12 years, Annette Freeland; his son, Paul (Diane) Di Dio of Hornell; their son, Ryan Di Dio; stepdaughter, Jennifer Freeland of Hornell; her daughter, Evangeline Holstein; sister, Mary Ann Di Dio (Thomas Flandsburg) of Fremont, NY, two brothers, Joe (Monica) Di Dio of Florida and Jim (Cindy) Di Dio of Texas; sister, Beth (Stephen) Turner of Rochester, NY; his four legged baby girl, Bella; along with several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours are 3-5 p.m. FRIDAY (June 19, 2026) at the Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, 285 Main St., Hornell where a private funeral service will take place at the convenience of the immediate family and close friends.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in his memory to the Hornell Area Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.
The Bishop-Johnson & Desanto Funeral Home is honored to assist John’s family with the arrangements.
Online condolences or remembrances of John are welcome at bishopdesanto.com or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home.
