John P. Unice

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John P. Unice, devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and cherished brother. John’s life was defined by an unwavering love and commitment to his family, placing their needs above his own and supporting them in every endeavor.

John shared a remarkable 54-year marriage with his beloved wife Carolyn. Their bond was a testament to love, respect, and devotion, a partnership built on a foundation of support and companionship.

Born and raised in Uniontown, PA to Husana Elias and George Unice Jr., John was one of nine siblings. He deeply valued the bonds he shared with his brothers and sister: Michael (the late Barb) Unice, George (Lana) Unice, Larry (Judy) Unice, Ken (the late Holly) Unice, Vince (Elizabeth) Unice, Ronald (Mandy) Unice, and brother in-law Thad Durka. Preceding in death are an infant brother Simon and sister Helen Durka. To the end, John would recall fond times he had growing up in Uniontown. From playing in the alleys, to winning basketball games on the playground, John was immensely proud of his upbringing, Lebanese heritage, hometown, and the personal and professional successes of his siblings.

Anyone who met John, within just a few minutes, would quickly learn about his three children and eleven grandchildren. As a father to Stephanie (Tony) Scruppi, Lynne (Paul) Yater, and John (Michele) Unice, John exemplified strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. The pride and love for his children was surpassed only by his devotion to his grandchildren. John’s role as Giddie (Lebanese for Grandpa) to his eleven grandchildren (Peyton, David, Joseph, Logan, Lainey, Caroline, Preston, Johnny, Ella, Elias, Maren) brought him immense joy. He treasured each moment and his presence in their lives was a constant source of love, warmth, and wisdom. This “Lebanese Love Spell” that he weaved from the time of their birth will last throughout their lives.

Outside of his devotion to family, John’s passion for basketball was a defining aspect of his life. He started his basketball career as a player at Uniontown High School, where he earned the nickname “The Bandit.” He continued playing at Washington & Jefferson, while working on his bachelor's degree. After graduating, he transitioned from player to coach at various high schools including Washington High School and then culminated his career at Washington & Jefferson College. His illustrious career earned him induction into four sports Halls of Fame: Washington & Jefferson (as a Player & Coach), Uniontown (Player), Washington/Greene County (as a Player & Coach), Fayette County (Player). Through all of this and throughout his life, he built lasting relationships and touched countless lives. He cherished every letter, card, email and text from his players, a testament to the profound impact he made. Even after retiring from coaching, he remained a fixture on the sidelines of his grandchildren’s games—still coaching from the stands and always letting referees know when they missed the right call.

John had an extraordinary ability to make anyone smile, with a quick wit, warm sense of humor, and a genuine kindness that made everyone feel like a friend. Though John has left this world, his legacy of love and dedication to his family and his faith in God will endure in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will remain forever cherished.

Friends and family will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father George Chortos at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at the Immaculate Conception Church of St. James Parish. The family requests that everyone meet at 9:00 a.m. at the Funeral Home for departing prayers. Interment at Immaculate Conception Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in John’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org.