Arnold Nicholas Iovinella Sr.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Arnold “Arnie” N. Iovinella, Sr., beloved husband and father, who departed this life on March 26, 2026, at the age of 93.

Born on June 4, 1932, in Schenectady, New York, he was the cherished son of the late Mary (Florio) and Salvatore Iovinella.

Arnie graduated from Nott Terrace High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Siena College. He later attended the State University of New York at Oneonta, where he earned a Master of Science in Education.

While in college, Arnie met the love of his life, Grace Y. Stay. The two were united in marriage on August 24, 1957, and shared nearly 69 beautiful years of devotion and partnership.

Arnie lived a full and meaningful life defined by profound dedication to his family and friends. He had a longstanding professional career as a teacher at Pinewood Elementary School in Rotterdam, New York that spanned over 32 years. His commitment to his students extended far beyond the classroom walls. For many years, Arnie was a fixture in the after-school program at the Schenectady Boys Club where he shared his love of sports as a dedicated coach for both basketball and football.

Arnie found immense joy in life’s simple pleasures. An avid sports enthusiast, Arnie had an enduring love for baseball, remaining a loyal fan of the New York Yankees and the Tampa Bay Rays. Beyond the diamond, he was passionate about the pageantry of thoroughbreds. In retirement, he and Grace spent many happy Saturdays at Saratoga and Tampa Bay Downs, sharing a deep appreciation for the majesty of the sport.

Arnie was incredibly organized, detail-oriented and took great pride in doing things right. He was a man of many talents and refined spirit. Arnie was perhaps happiest when in motion or capturing the world around him. He and his wife, Grace, mastered the art of ballroom dancing, navigating life with the same rhythm and poise they shared on the dance floor. His meticulous nature was evident at home, where he took immense pride in maintaining an impeccable yard. Always with a camera in hand, Arnie served as the family photographer, capturing every monumental milestone and the quiet beauty of everyday moments.

With an eager heart for exploration, he loved to travel across the U.S. and abroad. Yet, his greatest journey was raising his family. Arnie spent countless hours with his children, taking a deep and active interest in every aspect of their lives. This same tenderness extended to the family pets, whom he loved and cared for as cherished members of the household.

Arnie leaves behind a legacy of compassion, decency, love, and strength that will live on in all of us forever.

He is survived by his devoted and loving family: His wife, Grace; children, Arnold Jr., William, Arlene, Steve and “grandcats,” Sophia and Uma.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Carmel (Iovinella) Thompson and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A viewing was held on March 31, 2026 in Tampa, under the care of Blount and Curry Funeral Home - MacDill.

A Graveside Service will precede interment at Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery in Niskayuna, New York, on Wednesday, April 8th, 2026, at 12 Noon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your favorite charity or animal shelter.