Aniello Branca

Aniello “Neil” Branca, 71, of Sharon, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026, in his home surrounded by his family.

Mr. Branca was born on January 30, 1955, in Bagnoli Irpino, Avellino, Italy, a son of the late Domenico and Vincenza (DiCupua) Branca. When he was 15 years old, he immigrated to the United States, eventually settling in Sharon, PA.

Neil worked for nearly 30 years at Sharon Steel’s former Farrell plant until it’s closure. He then worked as a chef at Salvatore’s Italian Grill in Howland, OH, and eventually retired from NLMK, Sharon.

He was an avid golfer and was a fan of all the Pittsburgh sports teams. He also enjoyed playing soccer, hunting and fishing. He looked forward to cooking meals for his family while listening to music, especially Pink Floyd.

A true family man, he made sure to put those he loved first. Throughout his life, he became a father to many. He is survived by his daughter, Nicole Branca, of Sharon; two grandchildren, Michael and Makenzie Zellefrow; two great-granddaughters, Paisley and Peyton Nickols; and an extra great-granddaughter, Kloe Seliga. Also surviving is a sister, Marianna Branca, of Florence, Italy; a brother, Luigi Branca, of Farrell; and five nieces and one nephew, whom he loved dearly.

In addition to his parents, Neil was preceded in death by a brother, Raffaelle Branca.

The family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the American Cancer Society, at American Cancer Society.

Calling hours will be 4 to 5 p.m. Tuesday (04/07/2026) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 East State St., Sharon. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com

Funeral service will immediately follow at 5 p.m. Tuesday in the funeral home with Rev. T. James Harrison, officiating.