Ashtabula mourns the passing of School Specialist Joe Celliti

ASHTABULA, Ohio (WOIO) – The Ashtabula community is mourning the loss of school resource officer Joseph Cellitti after a valiant battle with cancer.

Ashtabula City Schools shared Cellity’s SRO, adopted Oct. 24.

His obituary states that he worked as a counselor at Lakeside High School.

“The AACS community pauses today to remember our school resource officer and friend Joseph Celliti, who passed away Thursday after a battle with cancer. Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time. Everyone will miss you, but you will live forever in our hearts.”

Cellitti also served as an Ashtabula County sheriff’s deputy.

“Today we will pause for a moment of silence to honor the memory of fallen Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Office Deputy (SRO) Joe Celliti.” AKSO reported this on October 28. “Our thoughts are with his family, loved ones and friends. May he rest in peace.”

He continued to protect the community as a lieutenant with the Ashtabula Police Department until his retirement in 2016.

“The Ashtabula Police Department mourns the passing of retired Lt. Joe Celliti. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and everyone who knew him.” APD shared. “Rest in peace, Joe.”

Ashtabula City Manager James Timonere offered the following condolences:

“Joe Celliti has served our community in a variety of capacities for years. He was a friend to many. I don’t remember a single conversation with Joe in which he didn’t make me laugh with one of his stories or a quick jab.

Cancer is such a terrible disease. My condolences to Joe’s family, friends and colleagues.

Relax, Joe.”

His obituary, published by the Ashtabula Police Department, said visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m., Oct. 28, at Guerriero Funeral Home, 1550 West 19th St. in Ashtabula.