His Italian grandfather insisted that he learn a trade (that was the style I old country). So by age 12 he was able to make a men’s complete suit from scratch. From this be was able to become a couturier in Houston, Texas. He dressed people like Gene Tierney, society columnist Betty Ewing, Actress Fannie Flagg and many others.
Valentino made a CD, “Let Me Entertain You” which was picked up Sirius XM and played from the California to New York.
He was an avid bridge player with Ann Bennett and Jean. In early days he loved to sail in Tampa Bay. He loved and enjoyed world travel.
He was active in Real Estate Title retrieval business for 30 years, supplying title info for law firms and title companies. His mentor was Katherine Cullen Burton. He always said she was his Guardian angel, who aimed him to success.
Valentino was a member of the Houston Club, SAE Fraternity, the Screen Actors Guild, and Order of St. John of Jerusalem Knights Hospitaller. He graduated from Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama. He attended medical school and South Texas College of Law. Valentino is survived by his son, Larry Bell, sister Mary Teresa Arce of Tampa, FL and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Saturday, April 3, 2021, 3PM at the Heights Funeral Home Chapel.
