Samuel Russell Pistachio Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Samuel (Sal) Russell Pistachio Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son and friend, who unexpectedly passed away on the 10^th of September 2026 at the age of 87.

Born on the 1^st of September 1939, in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, Sal was an intelligent, kindhearted man who touched the lives of all who met him.

After high school, he joined the United States Navy in September of 1958 and became an Avionics Electronics Technician, serving four years active duty and two years in the United States Naval Reserves.  He was honorably discharged in 1964. He then went on to work for several different companies in the private industry before settling at NAS Patuxent River, MD as a Government Civil Service employee with the Department of Defense in 1962.  During his tenure as an Instrumentation Technician, he supported the Technical Support Directorate working at the Calibration Lab, the United States Naval Test Pilot School and Rotary Wing.  While at Rotary Wing he was awarded the 1993 Test Technician of the Year.  After 33 years as a civil servant, he retired in March of 1995 from the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division at NAS Patuxent River, MD.  Shortly after retirement, he returned back to work part time at ManTech as a Lessons Learned Technical Editor.

He was known for his many accomplishments, receiving numerous accolades throughout his distinguished career.  More than just a respected professional, he was a mentor to all who had the privilege of working with him, generously sharing his knowledge, experience, and guidance with others.

In his free time, Sal enjoyed writing, to include a recently published novel, woodworking creating several pieces of furniture for friends and family, attending weekly car shows in Leonardtown with his beloved Trans Am, and enjoyed many years spending time at his beach house in Virginia Beach.  He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed spending his days hunting, fishing, canoeing, and camping. He was always eager to share his knowledge, provide guidance, and share stories with others.

He was a member of the Veterans of Helen and the American Legion Post 221 Avenue, MD.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 56 years, Linda Kathleen (Mattingly) Pistachio, whom he married on the 5th of December 1969.

He is predeceased by his parents, Lucy Katherine and Samuel Russell Pistachio Sr., his brothers: John Pistachio, Kenneth Pistachio, David Pistachio, Arthur Pistachio, his sisters: Rose Marie Putrino, Carol Pistachio, and Lucille Pistachio, his sisters-in-laws: Judy Pistachio and Marsha Pistachio.

He is survived by his children Christina Murray, Rusty (Debbie) Pistachio, Michelle Pistachio, Darren Pistachio, Dennis (Jessica) Pistachio, his grandchildren: Kayla (Chris) Roth, Julia (Alex) Collins, Jared Pistachio, Marcelo Pistachio, Alexia Pistachio, Emma Pistachio, and his great-granddaughter Noelle Rose Collins. He is also survived by his siblings: Barbara (Clint) Couse, Joseph (Margaret) Pistachio, his sister-in-law Lori Pistachio, and his brother-in-law Gino Putrino.

Family and friends will be received for visitation on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:0 PM, with prayers recited at 7:00 PM, in Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church located in Morganza, MD.  Sal will be laid to rest on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Queen of Peace Cemetery, 38888 Dr Johnson Rd, Mechanicsville, MD 20659. Serving as pallbearers will be Jared Pistachio, Marcelo Pistachio, Alexia Pistachio, Emma Pistachio, Dominic Holmes, and Christopher Tennyson.  Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Alex Collins, Jaden Roney, Steve Bryant, Michael Stalcup, Timmy Murray, and Zulma Carrasquillo.

Condolences may be made to the family at www.mgfh.com.

Arrangements provided by Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home and Cremation Services, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.