Obituary of John Joseph Antonelli III

John Joseph Antonelli III, age 58, of Melbourne, FL peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home with the Lord on May 20, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

John was born in Newburgh, NY. on October 19, 1964. He was the son of John Antonelli Jr., and Jacqueline Antonelli Ingalls, who both predeceased him. John moved to Raymond, Maine in 1977 and graduated from Lake Region High School in Naples, Maine, Class of 1983.

In Highschool, was heavily involved in extracurricular activities. He starred in the musical play “The Wiz” playing the Lion. He was also a leader in both Concert Choir and Concert Band. He was chosen for All-state Choir, and was also one of only 5 students to be picked out of the state of Maine and selected to go to Boston for a special performance.

John spent his career working in IT at Computer City, Sea Ray Boats, L3 Harris Corp and finally Nuance Corp. Despite not having a formal education in that field, he always credited his understanding of computers to the Lord; giving him the knowledge of how to do what was needed. He was patient and excellent in teaching others computer skills and helping them with their computer issues.

In 1995, John met the true love of his life, Holly, at Freedom Christian Center. John and Holly went on to have three children, Josiah, David, and Gabriella. John’s family was always at the center of his life. Many family memories were made throughout the years including trips to the Orlando Science Museum, St. Augustine, WonderWorks, Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, Amicalola Falls, and even Disney World. He also enjoyed coaching his sons’ basketball, baseball, and soccer teams for many years.

John was a believer of Jesus Christ. He had a firm assurance of where he would go after his time here on earth. He looked forward to hearing the words “Well done my good and faithful servant” when he arrived at the “Big House.”

He loved teaching and composing music. He had a natural gift playing many instruments such as drums, acoustic, electric, and bass guitar, piano and keyboard. He also loved to sing and teach vocals. He was able to play any instrument within minutes as he had an excellent ear for sound and notes. He had several students over the years, including anyone who showed any interest musically. John loved sharing with and collaborating with other musicians to produce new songs and loved having jam sessions in his home.

John dedicated his musical talents to the Lord, leading numerous worship teams at Freedom Christian Center, Journey Church, Lighthouse Christian Church, Suntree United Methodist Children’s Ministry, and Breath of Hope Ministries. He also founded and led “Water to Wine,” a Non Profit Contemporary Christian Band. Together they wrote and recorded a CD entitled “Take Me To The Holy Place.” which included eight original songs. One of the songs was written for his wife reflecting her life before Christ and the transformation of having God in her heart. The band ministered at festivals and churches and had airplay on a radio station in Brevard County. John’s “theme” song as he played it routinely throughout the years was entitled “By Your Side.” which is a love song to the Lord. Prior to Water To Wine, John wrote and sung a baby dedication song that was sung at his first son Josiah’s baby dedication to the Lord. It was also recorded.

Since John was a young boy, he loved the Dallas Cowboys. He always wanted to see a live game and got the desire of his heart when his nephew and Godson, John LaRocca, blessed him and took him to a Dallas Cowboys vs.Tampa Bay Buccaneers game. He was also a big fan of Nascar and Jeff Gordon. He especially loved going with his dad and family to Daytona Speedway to watch the races. John was a true family man and loved all the frequent family gatherings, which usually included eating Italian food. He had a tender heart, and was known for his sweet, kind, and loving personality. To know John was to love him and he will be missed by all.

John was a devoted husband and adored his loving wife, Holly Antonelli, for 28 years. Together they had a beautiful family, Josiah and his wife Vanessa, David, and Gabriella Antonelli. He will also be missed by his three sisters and one brother, Alisa & Bob LaRocca, Carmella & Michael Testone, Alean Mercier, Billy & Paula Antonelli, his stepmother, Kathleen Antonelli, mother-in-law, Jessie & Steve Crinion, his Godmother Cheryl Youlio along with several nieces, nephews, aunts, and cousins who dearly loved him.

There will be a Celebration of Life Service held at Freedom Christian Center 7250 Lake Andrew Dr Melbourne, FL 32940 on Saturday, July 1, 2023, at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, we would like to show our support for John’s family during this difficult time by helping them cover expenses if you should feel led.