John J. Viola
June 1, 1950 - February 14, 2026
Former State Representative John J. Viola passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the age of 75. Fondly known as “JV” around Legislative Hall, John served as a member of the Delaware General Assembly in the House of Representatives for 22 years, from 1998 until 2020. During his tenure, he served in leadership as Majority Whip from 2013 to 2017. John devoted much of his professional life to public service, earning the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle.
John was born on June 1, 1950, in Montreal, the only son of Guido and Marie (Zaccaria) Viola. He attended Holy Spirit Catholic School in New Castle before graduating from H. Fletcher Brown Vocational High School in 1968. He later earned a degree in Business Administration from Goldey Beacom College.
John was always deeply committed to giving back. Whether serving in the United States Air Force, volunteering in the fire service with several fire companies, most notably Wilmington Manor and Christiana, where he served the longest, coaching softball, teaching CPR, or as a member of Newark Elks Lodge 2281, he remained fully engaged in his community.
He began his career in the private sector, working at Huber Baking Company and Crown Zellerbach Corporation, a pulp and paper manufacturer, before transitioning into public service with the Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment and Training.
He dedicated much of his life to public service and was especially proud to serve alongside his daughter, Andria Bennett, in the Delaware General Assembly, making state history as the first father and daughter to serve together in the same legislative chamber.
Outside of public service, John was an avid Philadelphia sports fan who faithfully cheered on the Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia 76ers, and Philadelphia Flyers. Whether they brought home a championship or broke his heart, he never wavered in his loyalty.
John was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Dominic.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Anita; his daughter, Andria Bennett; his stepchildren, Jill Reifsnyder and Jimmy Reifsnyder IV; his grandchildren, Francesca Viola and Jimmy Reifsnyder V; and his sister, Mary Ann Cavanaugh.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 North DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE 19720. Services and interment will be held privately.
The lives he touched are better because of him, and his absence will be felt forever.
Barbara Dycio
Dear Anita and Family,
I am so sad and sorry for all of you. John was a wonderful man and will be terribly missed by all who knew him…RIP John.
Perry patel
Rest in peace.
Al and Barbara Erskine
Sad news about a political friend from the 1990’s.
Friends
The Erskine’s
Brian McGlinchey
A great man dedicated to service to others. Prayers for Andria and family. ✝️
Patti Smith
Condolences to his family & RIP
Jaime kinsey
Growing up he was another parent to me and you and Dominic practically my siblings. I caught up with John not too long ago at the Elk’s club and it was so nice seeing him. That big cheesy grin. Always loving and friendly and many many many core memories are with John and the viola family. I’m deeply sorry for your loss. With love. Xo
Patricia Maichle
Thank you, Representative Viola. You were always kind, responsive, fair, and smiling. You always went the extra mile for your constituents. You loved your family. I was blessed to know you.
Brenda Chambers
Andria,
So sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. I know you had a very close and loving relationship with him which has been evident ever since I had the pleasure of working with you at Delaware 2-1-1. Hold on to the memories and please know that I express my deepest condolences to you and your family
Love,
Brenda Chambers