Memories from Shelagh Rozzo’s Daughter, Raine Sloss in Sydney Australia
A beautiful Family and i was introduced by L.W. Rozzo

To the Sessa family. I am deeply saddened to hear of John Sessa's passing. It has been my honor to have met him in the 1970's when he purchased his Cessna 411, N444HC, from my late Father, Geoffrey A. S. Roberts, There was a shared love of aviation between Mr. Sessa and my Father, and they remained in contact for many years after that, until my Father's passing in 1987. Although it may sound odd, the fact that he kept the tail number from the old twin Cessna onto subsequent aircraft, gave me comfort that the number my Dad spoke so often, lived on in good hands. Each time I saw Mr. Sessa, he always gave a warm smile and kind word. A true gentleman, he will be missed by many. His name will always be spoken with respect in our home and his family, always in our prayers.Sincerely,Ian G. S. Roberts

When most people in the South Florida community hear the name Johnny Sessa, they think of the remarkable success that he achieved with his businesses Johnny Sessa Bulldozing and LW Rozzo. There is no question that Johnny Sessa Bulldozing and LW Rozzo played a large part in South Florida's history, and that he helped to create the community that we all know today; they served as an enormous part of his life and will forever live on as a symbol of his life-long work and the work of our family.An even bigger accomplishment than the astounding success of his businesses, however, is the family that he built with my grandmother, Judy Sessa. Because when our family thinks of Johnny Sessa, we will think of the man who gave us the biggest blessing of all . . . each other. We will think of his three sons, his three daughters, his 17 grandchildren, his seven great-grandchildren and his first great-great granchild, Aubree, who entered the world the day after we lost our beloved patriarch.We will think of our beautiful and timeless matriarch, Judy, who stood by him for more than 60 years, who stands at the center of our family and serves as our pillar of strength in this time of incredible loss.We will think of the person who could always be found at the head of the kitchen table watching the news or napping on the family room couch while the horse races played on the television in the background. We'll think of the person who, even in his eighties, drove into the office nearly every day because he couldn't stand not to work.We will think of the person who always had to have extra ice his glass, whose hands were worn from his years of hard work, and who loved a day at the races but hated to lose at his sport because of his competitive spirit. We will smile and think of his stubborn nature and the endless generosity he showed to his friends and family.We will think of the man who taught us what hard work really means and who inspires us to relentlessly chase our dreams the way that he did. We will think of the humble beginnings he came from and the magnificent life he tirelessly built for himself and his family. We will think of the man who taught us that success is not measured by the things that you have but by the people who love you and who will continue your legacy well after you're gone.Before my grandfather passed, I had two wishes for him. One was that he would have a horse win the Kentucky Derby. The other was that he would know how incredibly loved he was. Although he never won the Derby, I have no doubt that today he is looking down and realizing how truly loved he was. I also have no doubt that he's racing the finest thoroughbreds in heaven.I hope that the South Florida community will join my grandmother and our entire family in celebrating his beautiful life and his legacy that we will proudly carry on for him.

Judy my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Johnny is now with Ralph and it feels like and end to an era! He will be missed by so many, never forgotten.. So happy to have known both Ralph and Johnny Sessa.

Loved my younger days when we would sit around your huge kitchen table in Dania and talk about my running. You always wanted to know how far I ran that day and what race I had planned next. You were a B buster for sure, but that's what we loved about you. Open and honest...always saying whats on your mind. You will be missed. My heart and prayers to all the Sessa family of whom I've known and loved most of my life.

Attended mass celebration today. Father Q'Reilly and Ralph Jr. did a fabulous tribute to a Dania icon. Rest in Peace Johnny

Sending love and prayers to the entire family. Some of which we never knew and some whom we were close with. Condolences and peace be with you all in this hard time.

On behalf of my Husband Reginald Lewis(Reggie).Condolences to JUDY,Gary,Mark and all other Familymembers.Love and prayers to the SESSA family.Johnny,Reggie will miss you.May you rest in PEACE.Although i have never met you Johnny, you were strong,kind,fair ,with the biggest heart.JUDY,you had a CHAMPION. May GOD comfort you.Respectfully yours,ARLENE BRYAN-LEWIS,for Reggie.

I started working with Mr Sessa, his sons and son in law in November 1992. I was at the lowest part of my life, about to give in, and just needed a break. Mr Sessa took a chance on me and I'm still there today. It's a hard business and while Mr Sessa may have been a hard man, he was a Fair Man. Yes we worked hard but we worked steady and we got paid. I "balled the Jack" in a bulldawg Mack and I liked it and am a better man for it. Now there's stability in my life that has never been there before. Thanks to Mr Sessa and the chance he gave me. As I graciously extend my condolences to his Wife and family I would just like to add that while He may have left us in body, his spirit is still here. We will get through this. These things take time.Respectfully,James Letaw

We know how deeply John loved his horses. We will miss seeing him around the track. Judy, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.

Mr. Sessa was an incredible force for prosperity and good.

I worked for Johnny in 1973 until 1975, first at the rockpit as a dragline oiler for Lee Rackard,also worked on the dynamite rig eventually driving a dump truck.Johnny was a very smart and fair man!R.I.P Johnny and prayers to your wife and family.

My heartfelt condolences to you Jeff, Paula, and your whole family. My mother, Shirley Holman Jolly, was a close friend of your dad and mom back in their high school days and into the sixties until she passed away. I have always remembered their kindness to me and my two sisters (Danna and Tammy) during her illness. Again, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Dear Judy, I wish you hope and peace that you will see your wonderful husband again.""The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18 With kindest regards and much appreciation to you for the compassion you gave me so long ago.Carla (Jolly) Ferrara

Johnny Sessa was a truly remarkable man and a true friend to hundreds. Born in 1931 (with his twin brother, Ralph), his parent moved to Dania and farmed. He graduated from South Broward High when it was in the building--long gone--that later became Dania Elementary. He married his high school sweetheart, Judy, and started a little truck, clearing, and bulldozer business. He was the bulldozer operator. He worked tenaciously over the years and by 1965, had about 13 trucks, 4 bulldozers, three front-end loaders, and assorted other equipment. He then bought land and some equipment from Lou Rozzo (who was looking to retire) in western Broward--way out by the Sportatorium--and started a rockpit. That rockpit became the largest and most productive in Broward County and produced road rock, concrete rock and sand, and asphalt rock/sand. Everyone who has driven through or in Broward County has driven over rock from that pit. More than half of the buildings built in Broward County in 1970-1990 have Johnny Sessa rock in them. Eventually, though massive devotion to his business, Johnny Sessa Bulldozing became the largest aggregate rock producer in Broward County and one of its largest land clearing businesses. At the height of his business, Johnny had 64 big, red truck trucks (with "Johnny Sessa Bulldozing" in white shadow script on the doors), as well as three massive draglines, three rock plants, dredges, bulldozers, front-end loaders, backhoes, smaller draglines, rollers, and etc. He was "Uncle Johnny" around the Dania neighborhood because he and his brother, Ralph, lived across the street from one another and, between them, they had ten kids. So everyone in the neighborhood called them "Uncle Johnny" or "Uncle Ralph" (except to their faces unless you really were related). Super-devoted to his family, he was a character. Extremely charming, and blessed with a woman's eyelashes, his smile was contagious. When he grinned you grinned. You couldn't help it. He was pals with Don Shula and Earl Morrall. He often had one of them in his car in the '80s. Until he got older, it was not unusual for him to help with the physical work. Once he fed a portable rock-crusher all day, ... because there was business to be done and rock to be produced. He had a hot temper too. Once I messed up something when I was 16 and sanding trucks in his shop for the summer. He yelled at me terribly. About a half-hour later, he came back out into the shop and handed me my check (it was Friday). I thought I was fired, but inside was a 15 cent raise (back when that meant something). That same summer, he and "Uncle Ralph" went out one night and bought some very expensive Italian motorcycles. "Aunt Judy" and "Aunt Betty" would not let them keep them, so Johnny offered it to my Dad for free, for me. Pop said no (and probably saved my life). The motorcycles gathered dust for months afterwards. A couple of years before that, when I was fourteen, I bought a three-wheeled mailcart and crashed it twice the first day I had it. The second time, it was into a deep muddy ditch on Stirling Road. Johnny and my dad got into the muddy ditch with me, wallowed around, and manhandled it out. Johnny ruined his shoes. Johnny genuinely loved his chosen work. One of his oldest friends, Dave Pasley, once said that if Johnny was driving down a road and a beautiful, scantily-clad girl was on one side of the road and a dragline was running on the other side, Johnny would look to the dragline side.He was generous with Christmas bonuses and loyal to his men. When times were slow, he cut hours but did not have "layoffs." Because he knew what it meant to be a finish-grade bulldozer operator in terms of talent, knowledge, smarts, and tenacity, he respected all fine operators, whether they operated draglines, bulldozers, front-end loaders, or backhoes. He was old-school, he always knew he was the owner but he always seemed to consider himself "regular." He sometimes swept the floor. He sometimes would just talk to you for ten or fifteen minutes without any reason. Amongst many other crucial and difficult business calculations, he had to estimate and set prices for long-term rock-delivery contracts. He had to estimate and bid on huge land-clearing jobs. Each of these kinds of estimates typically involved hundreds of thousands (or several millions) of dollars, yet, every year he was successful -- for fifty years -- and in one of the most turbulent industries and areas of the country. He influenced the lives of hundreds of hard-working men -- men who showed up on time, worked smart, constantly, and under pressure ... in the rain, and cold, and heat, and dark. He provided a big, loud, vibrant, unique place to work. It was certainly a golden era.His last day, he went to his shop, went driving to a worksite, watched the work, went to the Georgia Pig for lunch, then went home and passed away in his chair at the age of eighty-two. He was much beloved. Rest in peace and I hope they have a D-5 with tight tracks and a tight blade waiting for you.

Judy , Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. The friendship we had and the friendship shared by our children when we all lived on the east side of dania are memories treasured by us all. John was a joy to know and he will be missed by all who knew him. May he Rest In Peace.

Our family lived in Dania Beach, and my Dad, Sam, knew Johnny for many years. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Sessa family. May God comfort you.

Dear Sessa Family,My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May the Lord's comfort help you through this difficult time.Sincerely,Gary Lloyd (friend of Gary)

To Sessa Family,My thoughts and prayers are with you. I will always remember how proud your dad was of you guys in the Bahamas.

Mr. Sessa was one of the finest of Italian gentleman. He was a good friend of my father Tony Canonie. I will always remember his very strong work ethic and the times I use to see him at the clock restaurant at 4:30 in the morning with my father. My condolences to all the Sessa kids and Mrs. Sessa.

to all the sessa family,we extend our deepest sympathy to you and our support. evelyn and elliot morris (friends of Gary and Linda)

WANDA AND BUDDY MULLIKINOur memories of Johnny go back to our much earlier days when he and Judy and the children were our neighbors in Dania. We have good memories of our children and theirs playing and sharing time together.Judy, we pray that the Lord will give you and all your family comfort in this time of sorrow. And always remember memories of your many years with Johnny are everlasting.

John was a wonderful man & a good friend for 20 years. He was tough & gruff on the outside as he reminded me so much of my late father. I was one of the few people who saw the soft side of this giant of a man. We hung out at Monmouth Park & shared breakfast together many times. I could write a book about his kindness. My late mother who lived in Florida was dying of Alzheimer's. I had mentioned to John that she could no longer fly commercial to visit me in NJ. John arranged for her to fly on his private jet. That was John. He loved his wife Judy, his children, and grandchildren very much. I will miss him terribly as he was one of a kind. May he rest in peace for all eternity in the House of the Lord. My sincere condolences to Judy and his family.With deepest sympathy,Bob, Jared & Aaron Hutt

So many good times were spent and memories made with John and Judy Sessa that I smile as I write this as my late husband was their thoroughbred trainer for almost 15 years if I recall correctly,John loved hanging at the barn with Alan, sitting in the golf cart while many a person stopped to pay their respects and catch John up on the latest gossip at the track. I can hear his belly laugh from the stories and remember his trips to the track kitchen at the break and many a time spent in the winners circle but most of all I remember the time my Mom passed away and the next day at the track while sitting in silence, he unJohnny-like grabbed my hand held it and shed a few tears with me. Yes, John could be tough but he also showed his kindness to those he cared for.Although when Alan passed he was no longer training for John and Judy - they flew up from Florida and were right there by Ryan's and my side. That I will never forget.I will miss my "Grumpy" - Judy understands I say that it is with love. May he rest in peace eternally with those who have gone before us and hopefully he will welcome us all at the finish line. My deepest sympathies to the entire Sessa family especially Karla and "my second Mom" Judy. Love to you,Kate

The Sessa families were loved deeply in Dania. We were all one center of Love. I remember as a child growing up with the Sessa's a very fond memory. When my son Danny was a child, we would walk over from my Mom's house (Toni Vargo) to see all the animals in the fenced yard behind the house. Also the remake of your house (doll house) for the kids to play in Memories are so precious and I will never forget them and I will keep them close in my heart. My condolences to all the Sessa Families who lost a Great man. Prayers and Much Love.

Sharing memories of Johnny go back for a lifetime, both his and mine. We were classmates as far back as the first grade, in the old Dania School building, and continuing on in the "New" South Broward High in Hollywood. Actually, only the senior year was spent there. My working career kept me there in Broward County, and being in the business of constructing schools Johnny and I remained in touch, even though he had left the old neighborhood of Dania. Johnny will be missed, by his loving family, and friends that he has made throughout this county; and by anyone that ever met him. Judy, you and the kids will be in our prayers as you go through these times. Just rest with these wonderful memories of a fine man. May he rest in peace, but also may he be walking in glory with our Savior and Lord.

Dear Sessa Family, You are in our thoughts & prayers at your time of sorrow. He is in a better place and once again with Ralph. Also, take comfort in knowing now you have a very special guardian angel watching over you. With Deepest Sympathy, Larry

Our Prayers are with John's family. He was a very well respected, man in the construction industry, and liked by all. Although we only sold him one Peterbilt amongst all his Mack trucks, we appreciated the opportunities he gave us, and enjoyed knowing Johnny. John, may you rest in peace, and really enjoy the better place you are now in.

Johhny was a great friend! Our condolences and prayers to the entire Sessa family.

I always enjoyed breakfast with Ralph and Johnnie at Denny's SR 84 and 441. Two great men! It was a pleasure to have known both!God bless!

I remember when Paula and I were in high school he would be able to fall asleep on the couch with kids, kids friends, barking dogs +++making tons of noise. So sorry for your loss.

We have so many great memories of Johnny. He helped teach our kitchen how to get food out for fifteen people in half the time. Loved to eat, not to wait. We loved seeing him and talking with him. He always treated us like family. We're going to miss him so. Our thought and prayers are with you all. God bless you.

Seeing Mr. Sessa always brightened my day. Blessings to you and your family.

Our deepest sympathy to all the Sessa family! Johnny was a great man whom we had the pleasure of knowing for many years! May God Bless all of you at this most difficult time! R.I.P. Johnny!Clyde & Lynn Craig

Dear Jeff, Randi & All of The Sessa Family,Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Please let us know if there is anything we can do.Love,Joe & Lori Clawges

There are so many stories to tell about my experiences with Mr. Sessa. I worked for Johnny @ L.W. Rozzo, Inc. He nicked named me Tom the welder which has stuck over the years.My fondest one was when I went to him and gave him a 2 weeks notice that I'd be quitting and going into the welding business. Everyone told me he would let me go on the spot. They told me he'd say " I wouldn't give you a notice if I was going to fire you so I don't need you waiting around for 2 weeks on my payroll". Well, I must have been one of the first because I worked the next 2 weeks and when the time was up, he hired me as a sub contractor. He gave me my start. Between Johnny and his brother Ralph, my family and I have prospered over the years. I owe a great deal to these two men as well as a lot of folks do. To all of his family my sincere condolences. To all of his friends, he can never be replaced. Thank you Johnny for everythingTom (the welder)

So many stories, so many memories of my dearest friend of 77 years. From tricycles, red wagons, Dad saving your big toe, our sharing paper routes and bicycles with Ralph, and our 1936 Fords,we have so very much to tell. Your first dump truck I painted red and off you went to greater and higher realms of life, now you to a realm the rest of us know nothing of. You will always live in my heart and want your family to know that as long as I stand I stand with them in your memory.Charlie Mac, Jr.

I met Johnny in 1956 at the Old Meekins Concrete where we equipment operators. He bquit to go in business. Later on I worked for him bulldozer operator. In 1974 Jonny interduced me to John Calvin at Hollywood. That was the best interduction I ever had. That led to me being with Calvin-Giordano for 30 Years. I owe many thanks to Johnny. To bad we lose the good so young.

He was the BEST grandpa a grandson could want!!!

Johnny was a great guy .He helped me when i was down and out.I owe everything i have today to him.may god bless him i will never forget him..

What a wonderful and fun man... He will remain in the hearts and the memory of many !My husband's best and funniest memory of Johnny and Ralph Sessa was many years ago at a 5 am breakfast on a Friday (payday). There was my husband Tom, Sandy Sanderson and the Sessa Brothers.  On the breakfast table there were two stacks of payroll checks to be signed. Ralph noticed that the one stack was much larger than the other. He asked Johnny "What the .... Is up with the TWO stacks ?" Johnny flashed his hand across the smaller stack and said "company payroll". Ralph barked back "What is this big stack?" Johnny replied "Racetrack payroll"Ralph said"Now this is NOT good (but he used other words) !! When the Payroll for the Racetrack is taller than the Payroll for the Company !" There was a moment of silence....Then Johnny smiled and started signing the checks.

OBITUARY

John C Sessa

August 5, 1931 – March 12, 2013

Fred Hunter's Funeral Home & Fred Hunter's Hollywood Memorial Gardens

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