Jack Peter Canizaro III Obituary

Jack P. Canizaro III, a loving husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather and great grandfather, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on January 18, 2025, at the age of 91, in Southaven, Mississippi. Born on October 23, 1933, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, Jack was the treasured son of James and Juliet Canizaro.

Jack's life was a testament to love, devotion and service. In his hometown of Vicksburg, he met the love his life, Tonia, with whom he shared 69 beautiful years of marriage. They were wed on June 6, 1955, and their enduring partnership became the cornerstone of a large and loving family.

After attending Mississippi State University for several years, Jack answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army in 1955. As a Specialist Third Class in Radio Operations, he was stationed in Germany, where he played a vital role in interpreting messages from Sputnik during a pivotal moment in history. Jack was honorably discharged in 1958, and returned home to build a life rooted in family and faith.

Jack and Tonia settled in Memphis, Tennessee, where he worked as a surveyor for the Reaves Sweeney Firm until his retirement in 2000. His professional career was marked by diligence and integrity — qualities that defined every aspect of his life.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jack was a man of steadfast faith. A devout Catholic and a member of St. Paul Catholic Church, he served in the Knights of Columbus. His faith was the foundation of his life, inspiring him to lead with kindness, humility, and love.

Jack's family was his greatest joy and accomplishment. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Juliet Canizaro; his brother, James P. Canizaro II; and his sisters, Theresa Meder (Ron), Juliet Sanderson (Sidney), and Josephine Head (Robert). He is survived by his beloved wife, Tonia Canizaro and six children — Dennis (Julie), Jeff (Karen), Dianne (David), Steve (Kathy), Mary, and Scot (Kelly); 21 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren; his sister, Lucy Williams (A.C.); and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was an avid reader, a skilled gardener, coin collector, and a master puzzle solver. He loved to fish and sit on the patio, peering at birds through his binoculars, finding joy in the simple pleasures of nature. He also took immense pride in cheering for the Mississippi State Bulldogs, a loyalty that defined him as a true fan.

A man of boundless generosity, sharp wit, and genuine warmth, Jack had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel like a lifelong friend. His love was constant and enduring, a guiding light for his family and friends.

A celebration of Jack's life will be held to honor his memory. The family will be receiving friends Wednesday, January 22nd, from 5-7pm at Hernando Funeral Home. A rosary to be held that night at 6:30 pm. A funeral mass will be held at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Memphis the following day at 10 am. Interment to follow at West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to St. Jude Children's Hospital. May Jack's soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those he loved.