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John M. DiPilato

Passed 2/20/2026

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Obituary For John M. DiPilato

Virginia Beach - John DiPilato passed away on February 20, 2026. Born to Pasquale (Patsy) and Filomena, John was raised in Piedmont, West Virginia, where he excelled in academics and sports. A proud Mountaineer, he completed his college education at West Virginia University, with degrees in history and business.

John went on to become a Special Agent with Naval Criminal Investigative Service, his dream career, one that provided immense fulfillment and pride. He was stationed in Sigonella, Sicily, Brooklyn, New York, and many bases throughout Hampton Roads. During his career, he travelled around the globe to destinations throughout Europe, Russia, Argentina, and Africa on various assignments. In addition to serving as a Special Agent in Charge, John was honored to oversee numerous security details for leaders and international dignitaries, including Yitzhak Rabin. After retirement from the federal government, he continued his service as a law enforcement officer, working with the Virginia Beach Police Department for six years.

John was a mentor to countless young agents and enjoyed providing guidance to those seeking a career in law enforcement. His influence was significant to many colleagues, who cite his dedication, hard work, and eagerness to help others as instrumental to their own growth.

As a younger man, John was an avid traveler who embraced every opportunity to explore new destinations. His Italian heritage was a point of great pride. He loved playing sports, including basketball, racquetball, and softball, and rooting for his beloved Los Angeles Lakers. John’s competitive spirit was evident in his intense management of local softball and intramural basketball teams. He firmly believed in giving back to his community and organized several tournaments and charity drives to benefit the Joy Fund. John was a friend to all animals, adopting many dogs and cats over the years.

For his family, John’s love was infinite and he will always be remembered for his steadfast devotion, sincere kindness, and overwhelming generosity. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Sandra Shapiro, and brother-in-law, Richard Wolverton. John is survived by his loving wife, Betsy, son Jay (Melissa, granddaughter Bella), daughter Renee (Andy Sulavik), and heart- adopted sons Gregg and Scott Parsons. Where there is deep grief, there is great love.

Simply Cremation assisted John’s family through this difficult process. Please share memories and condolences at SimplyCremationOnline.com.

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Condolences

  • 03/27/2026

    R. Bobbitt

    Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

  • 03/27/2026

    David Helfen

    I was deeply saddened to learn of John D.'s passing. He was the first person to greet me at the door on my very first day as a brand-new NCIS agent more than 20 years ago. From that day forward, John became an incredible mentor—steadfast, generous, and always willing to share his wisdom and good humor. He was truly a fixture in so many lives, and anyone who ever passed through the Norfolk Field Office can tell countless stories about John's kindness, leadership, and impact. Though it's been some time since we last spoke, John will always hold a special place in my memories from what was an extraordinary chapter of my life. To John's family—please accept my sincere condolences and know how deeply he was admired and respected by all who had the privilege to serve with him. His legacy will endure in the lives of those he guided and inspired.

  • 03/24/2026

    Jim Browning

  • 03/24/2026

    Jim Browning

    Betsy and Jay (don't think I ever met Renee) I'm so sorry for your loss!! John was one of my favorite clients - he was so proud of his children and I loved talking sports with him! I will be thinking of him as I watch March Madness this year!! Jim Browning

  • 03/23/2026

    G.N. Parker

    John D. was my first "real" supervisor at NCIS. He was a fantastic boss who had a great temperament. He was such a friendly guy, we used to joke, "if John D. is mad at you, then you really did something wrong." And you wouldn't know it from looking at him, but he was also a tremendous athlete and competitor. He was a great mentor and I am grateful to God he was my first boss with the agency. He set the tone on what a good supervisor should look like. I was very sad to hear of his passing, but I hope he is reunited with all his loved ones who have gone before him (including his pets). Please know, John D. had an enormous positive affect on many junior agents (many of which are now retired or senior "old" agents). We can only hope we leave the same impact when we are called home. RIP John D! -G.N. Parker Psalm 34:18

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