Rocco Joseph Vallone (age 88) of Alpharetta, Georgia, born February 23, 1936, passed away on October 24, 2024. He left us in the same way he lived his life…large and in charge. He went peacefully in the comfort of his home, looking into the eyes of the love of his life, Margaret Ann Vallone. Sweethearts from age twelve and married 68 years, they modeled the true meaning of their vows sharing life’s blessings and challenges, faithfully devoted to one another.
Margaret and Rocco have two daughters, Roxanne Vallone and Mary Grace Thomas, and a son-in-law, Jeff Thomas. His legacy will continue through his grandchildren Rocco, Shannon, Sabrina, Anthony, Dominic, Vincent, and his great grandsons, Jackson and Cason.
Rocco was born and raised in Houston, Texas. His professional career in the Wine and Spirits industry led him to Atlanta and then to New York. Upon retirement, Rocco and Margaret returned to Georgia.
Rocco was an accomplished athlete, playing football, baseball and basketball in his younger years and an avid golfer later in life. He used his athleticism as he proudly served in the US Navy, not on a ship, but on the baseball field. He passed his love of sports and athleticism to his grandchildren whom he taught and supported in all their endeavors.
Rocco’s faith, love of family, strength, integrity, and loyalty were boldly apparent in every stage and aspect of his life. He will be remembered not only for his achievements, but for the profound impact he had on the lives of those who were blessed to know him.
A rosary and Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Roswell, Georgia on Thursday, November 14, 2024. The rosary will begin at 11:30 a.m., followed by Mass at noon and a reception in the Family Center. The interment will take place at Arlington Memorial Park at 3:30 p.m.
In lieu of customary remembrances the family requests, with gratitude, that memorial contributions in Rocco’s memory be directed to Faith in Action (P.O. Box 370587, Decatur, GA 30037) or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org/).
