Dan "Danny" DePaola

Dan “Danny” DePaola, born October 31, 1949, in Newark, New Jersey, passed away at home beside his beloved wife, Sherri, after a courageous and hard-fought journey with illness.

Danny married the love of his life, Sherri Lee Thompson, on February 18, 1983, in Olney, Maryland. Together they built a life rooted in love, family, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sherri DePaola; his children, Christopher DePaola and his wife Jacilene, Danielle and her husband Daniel Windsor, Joey Nicole DePaola; his sister, Linda; and four beautiful grandchildren who were truly his pride and joy. Danny was predeceased by his father, Anthony DePaola; his mother, Lena Sarno; and his brother, Anthony DePaola.

Danny lived a life fueled by passion, creativity, and connection. A gifted actor, he trained in acting school and improv groups and performed in film, television, and, most especially, live theater. He was a Peer Award winning stage actor in Washington, DC. The stage was his true home. He was a proud member of AFTA and SAG. His love for acting—particularly live theater—never faded.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, Danny served as a member of the Army National Guard and shared his love of sports as a tennis instructor. An accomplished athlete, he enjoyed playing and teaching tennis, golfing, and in his prime, running. His love of an active lifestyle and the outdoors ultimately brought him to Florida, where he continued to embrace life with energy and enthusiasm.

Above all else, Danny cherished his family. There was nothing he loved more than his children, his grandchildren, and a house filled with family and friends. His warmth, humor, and presence made gatherings feel complete.

For the last 20 years of his life, Danny battled blood cancer and numerous other illnesses with grit, resilience, and determination. Though the fight was long and often difficult, it never defined him. After three months in and out of the hospital, he spent his final day and a half at home, where he passed peacefully in his bed, next to Sherri—exactly where he belonged.

Danny was fond of and supportive of Blood Cancer United, a cause close to his heart.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his talent, his strength, his love of life, and the immense love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the stories he told on stage, the lessons he taught on the court, and the love he gave so freely to those around him.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, with a gathering at 10:00 am and a service to follow at 11:00 am at Haisley Tribute Center located at 2041 S.W. Bayshore Boulevard, Port St. Lucie, FL 34984.