PISTELLA, III

FRANK J.

Passed away on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the age of 74, due to complications from Alzheimer's Disease. A life-long resident of Pittsburgh's Garfield/Bloomfield neighborhoods, Frank was deeply rooted in the community he served and loved.

A graduate of Central Catholic High School (Class of 1969), Frank went on to earn his bachelor's degree from John Carroll University in 1973 and later received his Juris Doctor from Widener University.

Throughout his life, Frank wore many hats: public servant, attorney, student of American history and devoted reader. For 28 years, he served in the Pennsylvania State Legislature as a State Representative - a role he viewed not as a job, but as a calling. He believed leadership meant listening, and that real change came from putting people first. His advocacy for women's rights and the aging population was especially impactful, and his work was always grounded in purpose, principle and community. After leaving the Legislature, Frank continued his commitment to service through his work with Neighborhood Legal Services.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Frank J. Pistella "Sonny" and Rita (Kineavy) Pistella; his brother-in-law, Jim Carr; his sister-in-law, Robin Pistella; and his beloved companion, Carol Lawniczak.

He is survived by his daughter, Lauren Pistella Ley (David Miller and Bellamy); his sisters, Rita Carr of Stuart, FL, Noreen (David) Saville and Jeanette (Donald) Thomas; his brothers, Paul Pistella and Jack (Donna) Pistella; his uncle, Robert (Sue) Kineavy; and his aunt, Mary Dolan of Stuart, FL; as well as many beloved nieces, his nephew, cousins and the children of his nieces and nephew who brought him joy.

Family and friends are welcomed at the WALTER J. ZALEWSKI FUNERAL HOME, 216 44th Street, Lawrenceville, on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 and Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial at St. Aiden Parish, St. Alexis Church on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Everyone please meet at church.