Obituary: John Cilli, of Sag Harbor, Dies at 87

Info via Yardley and Pino Funeral Home

John Cilli, of Sag Harbor, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, August 18, about two months after a diagnosis of esophageal cancer. He was 87 years old.

Cilli was born after his parents purchased what is now known as part of Cilli Farm in Sag Harbor.

He worked for many years at Cove Side Dairy, the family-run dairy farm now known as Cilli Farm.

After he retired, Cilli recycled scrap metal and gave away hundreds of his handmade stools and trivets, telling the recipients they had officially joined “The Club”.

He was also a was a regular at a local deli where he met friends for coffee and conversation.

He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Anita; and daughters Karen (Ray) Sperling of Sag Harbor and their family Diana, Dominick and Dominick Morana; Beth (Ed) Castor and grandchildren Nick, Emily and Rebecca of San Antonio, TX; and Janet (JC) Christiansen and grandchildren Kathryn and Sarah of Athens, PA.

He is also survived by his sister, Ange Cole, of Southampton, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Cilli was predeceased by his siblings Vito (Red), Dominick, Rose, Jean and Nick.

Viewing took place at the Yardley and Pino Funeral Home on Friday, August 21 and services took place on Saturday, August 22 at St. Andrew’s Church in Sag Harbor.