Salvatore Boccia

We are here today to not only say goodbye, but to honor a very special man, Salvatore Boccia. To some he was Papa, Grandpa, Brother, and friend. He was a man with a big heart who touched everyone's lives. Salvatore had a special charisma and charm, and anyone who had the privilege to meet him instantly knew his love of life.

Salvatore was born Febuary 28, 1937 along with a twin brother Josepe of Naples, Italy. His beloved parents were Angelina and Luigi. He met and fell in love with a beautiful woman named Marie who had 7 children. They got married and came to America and had 2 Daughters of their own, Dorina and Angelina. He worked several years in a restaurant, and eventually was able to open up a pizza place of his own. Over the years he opened up a total of 15 different pizzerias in several different states. He settled down in Tennessee, first opening up Roman's pizzaria then settling soon after in Alcoa, Tennessee. His last restraunt was Metro Pizza. He was the local celebrity there. He was even named man of the year in 1999.

Salvatore was a hard working man and an amazing cook. He took pride in his food, whether it be pizza, eggplant, or chicken parm it was like watching Michael Angelo create art. Not only did you get exceptional food you were also entertained. Every customer was treated like family and not only did you leave satisfied, you left with a smile on your face. He loved to sing to his customers, (especially the ladies). You could always catch Salvatore singing Italian love songs. His motto was to "Enjoy Life" and that's exactly what Sal did. He enjoyed life to the fullest if anyone asked him how he felt he would respond "I Feela Wonderful". Salvatore's business' was his life and he would refer to it as a hobby instead of work.

Each morning he would start with a cup of espresso with Anisette. One of his favorite hobbies to pass the time would be to watch wrestling. Sal would retire in 2003. He moved back to Florida with his two daughters Dorina and Angelina who cared for him and provided him with many years of loving support as his health failed. He still sang and lived life to the fullest. He even enjoyed a glass of wine now and then.

Before Salvatore's illness took him, he accepted Christ in his heart and on November 20, 2013 he was called home.