John Ciafardini
John Ciafardini, 83, of Roanoke, went to be with the Lord on Friday, September 11, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Bessie Ciafardini; brother, Manuel Ciafardini; and sister, Patricia Sweeney.
Johnny is survived by his daughter, Angela Ciafardini-Pratt (Michael); former wife, Donna Holdren; sons, Anthony Ciafardini and Daniel Ciafardini (Teri); grandchildren, Noah and Cora Ciafardini; former wife, Pamela Bell; brother, Ernest Ciafardini (Donna); sister, Emma Jean Ciafardini; as well as many nieces and nephews.
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a beloved father, grandfather, brother, friend, and lifelong musician. Music was woven into his life from an early age. In his younger years, he played drums in several bands, and his love of music never faded. He continued playing drums throughout his life, always finding joy in the rhythm and the memories that came with it. Above all else, he loved his family. His children and siblings held a special place in his heart, and in his later years, his grandchildren became his pride and joy. He cherished every moment with them, especially attending Cora’s singing programs and Noah’s soccer games, proudly cheering them on from the sidelines.
He lived a life full of many passions. He was an avid fisherman, a musician at heart, and a devoted hot rod and car show enthusiast. He enjoyed working with his hands, drawing from his years as a carpenter and working in refrigeration. He loved to tinker in the garage and there was rarely a problem he couldn’t fix. For him, the garage was not simply a place to work, it was a place to create, fix, explore, and enjoy the things he loved.
Johnny also treasured his friends and the people who became part of his everyday life. He was especially blessed by his best friend, Alfred, who helped him until the end, and his sweet neighbors, including Susan, who remembered him each year by showering him with holiday treats. Those thoughtful acts of kindness meant more than they may ever have known.
John started his journey with two amazing women, with whom he shared children. They each became an important and cherished part of his life story. Each chapter of his life brought its own memories and family bonds that helped shape the man he became. Through all of life’s chapters, he remained someone who loved deeply, lived with curiosity, and found happiness in the simple pleasures that made each day his own.
He was a wonderful father and grandfather, a cherished brother, a loyal friend, and a man who was loved by many. His absence will leave an emptiness in the hearts of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.
Yet, while we mourn his passing, we are also grateful. We find comfort in knowing that after 83 years of a life filled with music, family, friendship, work, laughter, and love, he has gained his place in his heavenly home. May he rest peacefully, surrounded by the love he gave so freely to others--and may his music play on.
The family will have a Celebration of Life Service at 3:00 pm on Friday, September 18, 2026 at Simpson Funeral Home 5160 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA 24019.
