Portsmouth, VA  –  Angelo Mesisco, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 11, 2025, following a mercifully brief illness. He was 84 years old. His final days were filled with family, jazz, laughter, love, and moments of deep peace. Most preciously, he was able to greet his newborn great-granddaughter, Penelope.

Born and raised on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx, New York, Angelo carried his American-Italian heritage with pride. In the 1970s, he made Hampton Roads, Virginia his home, where he became best known as the proprietor of the Angelo Mesisco Salon in downtown Norfolk. A talented stylist and dedicated mentor, Angelo led a successful business for over 40 years, taking great pride in supporting his staff and serving his clients with warmth and excellence.

Outside his profession, Angelo was a passionate artist, spending countless hours painting abstract acrylic works in his home studio. One of his paintings continues to hang behind the desk of Senator Mark Warner. He was a lover of jazz, literature, fine wine, and world travel—his journeys taking him to distant places such as Nepal, India, and Tierra del Fuego.  One of his greatest joys was sharing long, multi-course dinners with his wife, Mary Jo, family and friends.

Angelo lived vibrantly, loved deeply, and laughed loudly. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mary Mesisco. He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo Mesisco; his children, Patty Mesisco-Keeling, Ralph Mesisco, and Nicole Mesisco Reed (Billy); his niece, Josephine Rice Horan, whom he helped raise; his sister, Anne-Marie Gorman (Tom); his grandchildren, Sarah Reed Weld (Daniel), John Lloyd Reed (Lizzy), Mary Mesisco Willis (Blake), and Emily Mesisco; and his great-granddaughter, Penelope Willis. He is also survived by numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

A life well lived, a man well loved.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Norfolk SPCA, Norfolk Catholic Worker or to a charity of one’s choice.  Per Angelo’s request, a private Celebration of Life will be held.  Cremation Society of Virginia, Chesapeake, is assisting the family.  Friends and family may send online condolences and memories at www.vacremationsociety.com