Luigi Tedesco

November 21, 1939 – October 15, 2026

Luigi Tedesco, 86, passed away on October 15, 2026. Born on November 21, 1939, in Bari, Italy, he was the beloved son of the late Giuseppe and Faustina Tedesco.

Luigi was the devoted husband of Frances Tedesco, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage and countless cherished memories. At the age of 21, he immigrated from Bari, Italy, to the United States in pursuit of a brighter future. He met Frances at church, beginning a love story that would span more than six decades. They later worked together in a factory, building a life founded on perseverance, partnership, and shared purpose.

Luigi and Frances first made their home in Bushwick, Brooklyn, where they purchased an Italian deli on Knickerbocker Avenue called Bari Food Center. Four years later, they moved to Bethpage, Long Island, where they continued building their future and raising their family.

He was the beloved father of Tina Antonacci and her husband, Nick Antonacci; Amy Tedesco and her husband, Armando Torres; Julia Russo and her husband, Salvatore Russo; Joseph Tedesco; and Gino Tedesco and his wife, Shannon.

Luigi was the proud Nonno of eight grandchildren: Cristina, Brianna, Marco, Olivia, Deana, Mia, Ella, and Nica. He was also the loving Bisnonno of Arianna, Valentina, Isabella, Ava, and Gia. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy, and he treasured every moment they shared.

He was the cherished brother of Grace and the late Frank and Benny. He also held a special place in his heart for the beloved Rita Ramos.

A man of strong character, generous spirit, and remarkable determination, Luigi found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved nature, the outdoors, and the land he cared for so deeply. He and Frances enjoyed traveling to many beautiful places, especially Aruba and Florida, which held a special place in his heart. He also loved hunting and spending time at his upstate properties, riding tractors, breathing in the fresh air, gathering around fires, singing, and sharing laughter with those closest to him.

Luigi had a special appreciation for his candy-apple-red Corvette and a good espresso. Known affectionately as the ultimate Mr. Fix-It, he was always ready to lend a hand, take on a project, or repair nearly anything. His capable hands, boundless energy, and willingness to help others reflected the thoughtful and resourceful man he was.

Whether working on a project, enjoying his favorite espresso, spending time outdoors, traveling with Frances, or gathering with loved ones, Luigi embraced life in his own unmistakable way. He was hardworking, warmhearted, and full of character, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

From Bari, Italy, to the life he built with Frances on Long Island, Luigi’s journey reflected courage, determination, and perseverance. Through his hard work, he created a home filled with warmth, traditions, and memories that will continue to bring comfort to those he leaves behind.

Though he will be profoundly missed, Luigi’s spirit will live on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who knew him. His endless energy, stories, singing, love of family, and readiness to help others will remain forever in their hearts.

Luigi will be remembered always, cherished forever, and loved endlessly.

Funeral Services

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 18, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Arthur F. White Funeral Home, 315 Conklin Street, Farmingdale, New York 11735. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 11:15 AM at St. Martin of Tours Church, 220 Central Avenue, Bethpage, New York 11714.

Entombment will follow at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Farmingdale, New York.