Deacon Andrew T. Gargiulo

Deacon Andrew T. Gargiulo passed away on September 2, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on April 13, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York to his parents Thomas and Anna Gargiulo, he was the youngest of three children. He lived a life marked by service, faith, leadership, and deep devotion to those around him.

Andrew was blessed to spend 62 beautiful years married to his true love and childhood sweetheart, Joan. Their love story began when they were young and grew into a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, friendship, and unwavering devotion. They shared the kind of storybook love that becomes a lasting legacy, standing faithfully beside one another through life’s greatest joys and most difficult adversities, including losing their first born son, Andrew, as an infant. Their marriage was built on a deep friendship and a genuine love for one another, setting the ultimate example for their family of what marriage, partnership, and true friendship should be. Even after Joan’s passing in 2014, Andrew remained hopelessly devoted to her, carrying her love and memory in his heart for the rest of his life. Their love continues to inspire and remain a beautiful part of their family’s story.

An Army veteran of the Korean War, Deacon Andrew served his country with honor as a member of the 43rd Military Police Company, 5th Infantry Division. His love and talent for basketball accompanied him throughout his military service, as he traveled throughout Europe as a member of the All-Army/All-European Basketball Team and helped lead the team to a championship victory in Augsburg, Germany. Before leaving for the Army, Andrew had already achieved an extraordinary milestone, winning the National Championship in 1950 with CCNY. Upon returning home from his service, he continued his basketball career at St. John’s University, where he proudly played for the Men’s Basketball Team under legendary coaches Joe Lapchick and Lou Carnesecca. His accomplishments on the court, both at home and abroad, reflected the same dedication, discipline, and determination that defined his service to his country and his life beyond the game.

Deacon Andrew later dedicated 16 years to serving as a proud member of the FDNY, with Ladder 120 and Engine 231 in Brownsville, New York. To Andrew, the Fire Department was more than a career—it was a brotherhood built on courage, trust, and loyalty. He remained deeply proud of his service and loved sharing stories of his days in the firehouse throughout his life. Those stories and memories became a cherished part of his family’s history and a lasting reminder of the brotherhood that meant so much to him.

His commitment to others continued throughout his life in both professional and spiritual callings. He earned a master’s degree and went on to serve as a teacher and guidance counselor at St. John the Baptist for more than 20 years, guiding and encouraging countless students and families.

In 1984, he was ordained a Deacon, beginning a ministry that became a defining part of his life. His life was centered on his deep and unwavering faith, and he was devoted to Jesus and the Blessed Mother, often turning to Padre Pio in prayer. As Head Chaplain at St. Charles Cemetery for 30 years, he offered prayer, comfort, and a compassionate presence to countless people during moments of loss and remembrance. His faith was not simply a part of his life—it was the foundation upon which he lived it.

Deacon Andrew also gave generously of himself through athletics and mentorship. He coached basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, lacrosse, and football, sharing not only his knowledge of the games, but also his steady encouragement and belief in others. His love of softball was especially lasting, and he was honored with recognition in the Long Island Hall of Fame for softball, a tribute to the impact he made through sport and community.

Above all, Deacon Andrew will be remembered by his family with love and gratitude. They will continue to cherish their memories with him, the little moments, and trips they took with him to his favorite places, Lancaster and Walt Disney World. He is survived by his son Thomas Gargiulo and his wife, Jeanne, and by his daughter Carolyn Epifane and her husband, Joseph. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Ryan Gargiulo, Thomas Gargiulo, Sean Gargiulo, Katie McCarthy, Meaghan D'Italia, and Michaela Epifane, along with ten great-grandchildren who brought added joy to his family’s life. Deacon Andrew also leaves behind his beloved cat, Sushi. The love he gave to his family, and the example he set through faith, service, and generosity, will remain a lasting gift in their hearts. He will also be missed by his cat, Sushi.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at Mangano Family Funeral Home, Inc., 1701 Deer Park Ave, Deer Park, New York, on September 8, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A visitation at Maria Regina RC Church, 3945 Jerusalem Avenue, Seaford, New York, will be held on September 9, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A Mass of Transferral will be held that same day at 7:00 p.m. at Maria Regina RC Church.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated the following day at Maria Regina RC Church on September 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends who wish to attend the Mass are asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will follow at Saint Charles Cemetery, 2015 Wellwood Ave, East Farmingdale, New York.

Deacon Andrew T. Gargiulo’s life was one of steadfast duty, compassionate ministry, and enduring care for others. He leaves behind a legacy of courage, strength, kindness, and faithful service that will continue to be remembered by all who had the blessing of knowing him.

In Lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to: Hope for Warriors: https://www.hopeforthewarriors.org/donate/