John Xavier DeSanctis, 89

March 06, 2024

John Xavier DeSanctis, 89, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2024. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late John and Frances (Fera) DeSanctis. He was married 40 years to his beloved wife Virginia (Gregory) DeSanctis prior to her passing in 2003.

John was a proud veteran of the US Air Force from 1952-1956 serving during the Korean Conflict. After being honorably discharged and returning home, he served as a policeman in Philadelphia for 10 years. After relocating to Lancaster, John owned and operated John’s Automotive in Neffsville (currently known as Barry’s Automotive) until his retirement in 2010. John also was an avid Eagles fan, enjoyed playing pinochle, was an avid golfer, and loved gardening – especially roses. He had a passion for reading, learning about Civil War, Gettysburg, and other history. His family describes him as self-made, an animal lover, intelligent, and brave.

John is survived by 2 children: Patricia “Judy” DeSanctis and Christopher P. DeSanctis (Mary); 7 grandchildren: Angela, Nicholas, Anthony, John, Christina, Christopher, and Francis; numerous great-grandchildren; and 2 siblings: Paul DeSanctis (Marguerite) and Maria Helm (Scott). He was predeceased by 2 sons, John G. DeSanctis and Michael A. DeSanctis, and 3 grandchildren, Amanda DeSanctis, Dominic DeSanctis, and Jacqueline Ingle.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 11 AM at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 601 E. Delp Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601. Family and friends will be received from 10-11 AM. Interment will be at Landis Valley Mennonite Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in John’s memory to American Cancer Society, cancer.org.