Mr. John Arena

John Arena, a devoted Catholic, beloved family man, and cherished friend, passed peacefully into eternal rest, sustained by his faith and surrounded by the love of those whose lives he touched so deeply.

John was born on March 24, 1937, in Vizzini, Sicily, Italy, to his loving parents, Salvatore Arena and Vita Costa. In the years following World War II, he immigrated to Brooklyn, New York, with his parents and younger sister, seeking opportunity and laying the foundation for a life rooted in faith, family, and perseverance.

He was the devoted husband of Dolores Arena, his beloved partner of more than 55 years, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. He is now reunited in eternal peace with his cherished wife, Dolores, and his beloved son, Giovanni Arena.

John was a loving and dedicated father and father-in-law to Salvatore and Marcia Arena, Andrew and Kathryn Arena, and Giovanni Arena. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to Logan, Brendan, Gia, and Katie, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

He also loved his dear siblings and their spouses: Franca and Giuseppe Sboto, Tina and Giuseppe Spada, and Emily and Gennaro Crescenzo, as well as many nieces and nephews who will forever remember his warmth, generosity, and guidance.

After arriving in America, John became a partner in Anthony’s Barber Shop at 1350 Broadway in New York City, where he worked for 15 years. Located at Herald Square, directly across from Macy’s, the shop offered a unique vantage point from which the family enjoyed watching many Thanksgiving Day Parades from the comfort of customers’ showrooms.

In July of 1974, John relocated his family to Hallandale, Florida, where he continued to build his legacy. From 1976 through 2019, he was the proud owner of Hair Styles by John, first at the Diplomat Mall and later at 1602 E. Hallandale Beach Boulevard. For more than four decades, he served thousands of loyal customers, offering not only his skill but also friendship, conversation, and kindness to all who walked through his doors.

A man of deep and abiding faith, John lived his life guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church. He believed in the power of prayer, the importance of family, and the grace of God’s love. His life was a testament to humility, hard work, and compassion.

John will always be remembered as a man of faith, a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend to all. His legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of his family and all who were blessed to know him.

May he rest in the peace of Christ, and may perpetual light shine upon him.

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We invite family and friends to join us in honoring and celebrating the life of our loved one.

Visitation

Friday, April 10, 2026

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Fred Hunter Funeral Home

6301 Taft Street

Hollywood, Florida 33024

A gathering with family and friends

Funeral Mass

Saturday, April 11, 2026

12:00 PM

St. Matthew’s Catholic Church

542 Blue Heron Drive

Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009

Interment Ceremony

Saturday, April 11, 2026

1:30 PM

Fred Hunter Memorial Gardens - “Liberty” Mouselum

6301 Taft Street

Hollywood, Florida 33024