John Alessandro Sacco, born in Boston, was the beloved son of the late John and Celeste (DeSimone) Sacco. He passed away peacefully on November 4, 2026, at the age of 91, a longtime resident of Roslindale, Massachusetts.
Beloved husband of Marie (Chirichiello) Sacco his devoted wife of 68 years. Loving father of Celeste Tenaglia and her husband, Frederick, of Tewksbury; Maria Campbell and her husband, Lauris, of Roslindale; and Elaine Sacco of Roslindale. John was also a devoted father figure to Daniel Policelli and his wife, Mary Ann, of North Providence, RI, and Tina Yeskewicz and her husband Myke, of Coventry, RI, whom John and Marie lovingly raised following the passing of their mother, Bernadette Policelli, in 1986.
Caring brother of Robert Sacco and his wife, Thelma, of Milton; Sandra Gildea and her late husband, John, of Weymouth; the late Paul Sacco and his wife, Madelyn, of Winchester; and the late Arthur Sacco. Proud grandfather of 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
A proud United States Army veteran, John enjoyed a distinguished 43-year career with the Boston Police Department. He was the respected member of many Boston Police and Italian American police organizations. He was also an accomplished writer whose celebrated police column appeared in the South End News for nearly two decades. Known for his sharp wit, humor, and storytelling. John received Boston Magazine’s 1988 Best of Boston Award for Best Weekly Columnist.
Following his retirement from the Boston Police Department John continued his dedication to public service as Director of Security at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.
John had a lifelong passion for motorcycles, and was an avid swimmer, often saying that he had the ability to cut through the water like a knife. He was also a Boxer and sparred with local Boston fighters at gyms throughout the city. He loved a good glass of red wine with a dish of macaroni after a long day.
An avid reader with a particular love of world history, he possessed an insatiable curiosity for the stories of the past. An incredible storyteller, John had a rare gift for bringing people and experiences to life with his humor, wit, and unforgettable stories.
Above all, John was a devoted family man whose generosity, humor, and unwavering love left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His legacy of service, storytelling, and devotion to family will be remembered for generations.
Visiting hours will be held at the William J. Gormley Funeral Home,
2055 Centre Street, West Roxbury, on Monday, November 9, 2026, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Name Church, 1689 Centre Street, West Roxbury. Interment at Saint Michael Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://www.alz.org/manh?form=FUNDHYMMBXU