John Philip Toscano

CHAPEL HILL, NC: Mr. John Philip Toscano, 96, of Chapel Hill, passed away on Friday, May 29th, 2026, at Duke University Hospital.

Born in Rochester, New York on April 2nd, 1930, he was the son of immigrant parents Onofrio and Giuseppina (Josephine) Toscano. He was the youngest of Onofrio and Giuseppina’s two children. He was predeceased by his brother Matteo.

John was an exceptional student and athlete in high school and studied Health and Physical Education at Brockport State Teachers College. It was in Brockport that he met his wife-to-be, Jennie June Toscano, who predeceased him.

John’s college years were interrupted by the Korean War. He served in the 40th Infantry Division of the US Army, supervising a 60MM Mortar Section. He was wounded in combat and earned multiple medals and badges.

After returning home, John finished his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Brockport and married Jennie June. He specialized in High School Education, as a science teacher and department head. At the peak of his career, he entered administration as a Dean of Boys in the Rochester City School District.

John loved gardening and fishing, which he continued to enjoy until he was no longer physically able. John and Jennie June spent many retirement years in Florida, where they enjoyed the beach, fishing, and watching the sunset over the Gulf. They spent their last years in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

John leaves behind his children: John (Marianna) Toscano, Grandchildren Thomas (Ashley) Toscano, and Great Grandchildren Adele and Dominick Toscano.

As a memorial, contributions may be made to the Class of '53 Scholarship Fund at SUNY Brockport, 350 Campus Dr., Brockport NY 14420.

A private graveside service will be held at Salisbury National Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are by Walker's Funeral Home, Chapel Hill. Online condolences may be made to www.walkersfuneralservice.com.