John Vernon Scarcella, age 45, of Essex, Maryland, passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Devoted husband of Erna Scarcella (nee McCrea), and beloved father of Erika Joelle and Mason David. Cherished son to Joyce Elizabeth Scarcella and the late David Wayne Scarcella. Grandson to the late John Vernon Kropf and late Thelma Mildred Kropf. Adored by his family In-laws, nieces, and nephews.

John and his wife, Erna, celebrated 17 wonderful years of marriage in December 2025. John was a devoted husband and loving father who enjoyed family time. His children were his pride and joy and his greatest accomplishments. He cherished every moment spent with his mother, father and grandparents. He was incredibly proud of his family and eternally grateful for his upbringing.

John grew up in Harford County, Maryland. After graduating from Harford Technical High School, he enlisted full time in the Maryland Air National Guard. He served one tour of duty in Iraq and two tours of duty in Afghanistan. After dedicating 20 years of service and sacrifice, he continued his service in the Federal Government at The Defense Logistics Agency as a Product Specialist.

John, a natural born leader, was determined to make his mark on the world. Honored as the Most Worshipful Master of Mount Ararat Masonic Lodge in 2009 (Bel Air, Maryland), followed by service in official positions in the Grand Line of the Grand Masonic Lodge of Maryland. In 2020, he was ordained as a minister of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, and officiated 3 marriages. Later, he found his home in the Yacht Club Community, an active member of Red Eye Yacht Club and Veterans Yacht Club Association, King of the Chesapeake in 2023, Father of the 77th Queen of the Chesapeake. Posthumously honored as the 2026 Commodore of Veterans Yacht Club Association.

John had an energetic and passionate free spirit. Throughout his years, had many hobbies and shared his enthusiasm with all that he loved. John was a friend to all. A social butterfly, he would light up any room. You KNEW when John was there. John wasn't just your friend; he was your TRUE Friend. He loved each of his friends passionately. He had a "bleeding-heart" compassion to anyone in need. He enjoyed spending time with his dad restoring their 1967 Candy Apple Red Mustang and 2007 Mystic Blue Mustang. As an expert in "Dad" Jokes, he loved to make his children laugh, watch movies together, and eat cheese steaks with his son at their favorite spot. Of his many hobbies, he enjoyed Dungeons and Dragons and shared that love with his children. John loved all things Pirates, and embodied the persona heart and soul. John's favorite place to relax was by the water and called Red Eye Yacht Club his home.

John, a Husband, Father, Son, Friend and Veteran. He had an amazing wit and found elation in all that he did. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who have the privilege of knowing him.

A viewing and funeral service will be held at Connelly Funeral Home, 7110 Sollers Point Road, Dundalk, Maryland 21222, on Saturday, December 13th from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with a service celebrating his life beginning at 5PM.

A celebration of Life will be held in January 2026 at Red Eye Yacht Club. Date and Details to be determined. Please plan to attend!

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the following:

In memory of John Scarcella, send donations to Veterans Yacht Club Association, PO Box 8961, Baltimore, MD 21222-0961. This continues John's legacy of supporting veterans and active military. (Please add "In memory of John Scarcella" in the memo line of your check) www.vycmd.org

In memory of John Scarcella, send donations to Harford Family House,

Join John's personal challenge to support the 78th Queen of the Chesapeake's efforts in assisting those experiencing homelessness. https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=harfordfh&id=214

Donations can also be mailed to Harford Family House, 53 E. Bel Air Ave, Unit #3, Aberdeen, MD Attn: Heather Volk (Please add "In memory of John Scarcella" in the memo line of your check)In memory of John Scarcella, send donations to Baltimore County Animal Services, .... to share in John's passion for animals and finding homes for all those "Sweet fur-babies."