John Joseph Barra

John had a way of inspiring people—he made you want to be closer to your family, build stronger connections, tell better jokes, help those in need, and never turn down dessert. His smile was infectious, and everyone who met him couldn’t help but love him.

With his quirky sense of humor, he could light up any room. John was a true gentleman, even in his final moments.

John was born on September 30, 1946, to John & Nancy Barra of Elizabeth, NJ. After graduating from St. Patrick’s High School in 1964, he served in the Army infantry during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged with the Purple Heart as a disabled American veteran.

For more than 40 years, he built a successful career as a salesman in the metals and steel industry, representing multiple companies. Known for his strong connections and ability to build lasting relationships, John’s knack in both math and people skills was unprecedented.

He met the love of his life, Ann Louise Barile of Elizabeth, NJ and married her in 1969. John & Ann had four children.

Upon John’s retirement, he spent his time baseball card collecting, traveling to Aruba with his wife & family, frequenting casinos in Bethlehem PA, Atlantic City, NJ and Las Vegas, NV and spending time with his seven granddaughters.

John was predeceased by his beloved father John Barra and mother, Nancy (Barra) Carrano.

He is survived by a devoted family: his son John Barra, Jr.; his daughter Gina Fernicola, husband Vincenzo and daughters Francesca & Angela; his son Anthony Barra, wife Christina and daughters Madeleine & Vivienne; his daughter Julie Cennamo, husband Steve and daughters Sofia, Ella & Olivia; one brother, Jimmy Barra; two sisters, Nancy (Barra) Malinowsky and Joanne (Carrano) Wienckoski, and his brother-in-law, Buddy Barile.

Services will be held at Krowicki McCracken Funeral Home, 2124 E. Saint Georges Avenue, Linden, NJ on Wednesday, March 26th from 5pm-9pm.

Funeral will take place at St. Joseph The Carpenter Church, 140 E 3rd Avenue, Roselle NJ on Thursday, March 27th at 10am. Internment to immediately follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 220 Mt. Olivet Avenue, Newark, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, an organization he felt strongly about.