John A Mella Jr.

He was born in Weehawken, New Jersey, on April 26, 1941 to John A. Mella Sr. and Harriet E. Watson-Mella. Jack graduated from St. Michaels School in Union City, N.J and went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree from Fordham University in New York.

Jack built a successful career in finance, serving as Director of Treasury Management and Foreign Currency Exchange for Transammonia in New York City.

He proudly served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Army after graduating from Officers Candidate School (OCS). During the Vietnam War, he served with the 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper, a role that reflected his courage and commitment.

Jack was a passionate and lifelong car enthusiast. A member of the Porsche Club for 55 years, he also raced vintage cars for over three decades. He proudly raced his 1959 Alfa Romeo Spider Giulietta, “Carmella” (#315), in Connecticut, Canada, and across the United States before relocating to Florida in 2013.

After moving to Florida, Jack embraced a new passion for tennis, playing six days a week year-round until a few years ago. He was also known as a true “wine guy,” who loved cooking, entertaining, and sharing good food and conversation with family and friends.

Jack and his wife, Cathy, whom he married on November 11, 2021, enjoyed many memorable travels together. Among his favorites was a luxury barge cruise through Burgundy, France.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cathy; his daughter, Jane (Mike); his brother, Steve (Joyce); his stepdaughters, Erin, Lauren, and Jacquelyn; and his stepgrandsons, Jack, Jasper, and Charlie. He is also survived by his cousins, Ann, Ginger, and Richie; his nephews, Christian, Alex, and John Paul; his niece, Keri; his brother-in-law, Carl; and his sisters-in-law, Pat and Ann.

He was predeceased by his cousin Carolyn and his brother-in-law, Rick.

Jack loved his country, his family, and his many friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

“Once a trooper, always a trooper.”

A burial will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery on March 26, 2026. A celebration of Jack’s life will be announced at a later date.