My name is Denise Ranieri. My Great Uncle Sally was my Grandpa Tony Ranieri's brother. My late Parents (Florence and Sal) and I used to visit family during the weekends when we lived on Long Island. On occasion, we'd visit with Uncle Sally, Aunt Jean and their family in Massapequa. We always felt welcome at their home.
Of course decades passed, visits became less frequent, but holiday cards were always exchanged. In the 90's, when my dear Parents moved to Bayonet Point,FL sure enough, Uncle Sally's house was not far away - and occasionally we'd see him - smiling, dressed as dapper as could be, ready either for dancing or a round of golf.
My Mom and I reconnected and visited with Uncle Sally and Bea ( at Rose Tree) in early 2010, prior to the beginning of my world travels. I was seeking family history about the Ranieri migration from Naples to New York. Sure enough, his smile was bigger than ever. He gave me great family information and proudly showed me all his golf trophies...I had no idea how fabulous a golfer he was. He and Bea couldn't have been nicer to Mom and me- I'd have to do some digging, but I have photos from that memorable day.
In fact, once, after returning from my travels, Uncle Sally and I spent part of a day together at Rose Tree, as I wanted to learn to golf. So here I was a rank amateur hacker with beat up, old, 2nd hand clubs, tutored by this wonderful golf pro who showed me around the course. Uncle Sally gave me brief, understandable pointers, and let me tell you, he knew his stuff. I remember him telling me, in the most gentle way that I really needed new clubs. We laughed that day, and I remember him marveling at still being able to do so much at his age with gusto and without glasses! On the way home, I promptly bought a set of new clubs - on sale - called him and told him. Needless to say he invited me back to Rose Tree for lessons- but somehow time got away from me.
Uncle Sally was a class act and also a character in the best sense of the word. His permanent smile, kind words and just great attitude of gratitude was his hallmark.
I look at him in photos and do see the resemblance between him and my Grandpa Tony- it's in that winning smile. I know I inherited something from both of them, as I love to dance and will never pass up a plate of pasta.
Thank you, Uncle Sally for teaching me to enjoy life and for valuing the art of smiling.
Your loving grand - niece,
Denise
