07/23/2026
With regret, I inform you of the passing of Pietro (Peter) Terranova.
(Family written obituary) Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Pietro Terranova passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at the age of 84.
Pietro was born on May 18, 1942, in the small town of Sperlinga, Sicily. In 1961, at just 18 years old, he came to the United States with humble beginnings and an unshakable determination to build a better life. He began by sweeping the floors at what was then La Gumina Bakery, and in time worked his way up to selling bread door to door throughout Pelham Bay and the surrounding neighborhoods. The work was relentless. Through rain, snow, and summer heat, his days began at 4 a.m. and often stretched past 7 p.m. Whenever he could, he quietly stepped inside to learn the craft of baking, determined to master every corner of the trade.
His ambition never wavered. In 1967, at just 25, Pietro had saved enough to purchase the bakery from the very employer who had first hired him. From the beginning, Pietro was the one who ran the business, guiding nearly every part of its operation, and over the years it grew into a family endeavor. His wife, Vera, whom he married in 1969, was at his side from the beginning and remains deeply involved in the daily operations to this day. In the early years, his mother and sister helped as well. Two years after taking over, Pietro brought his brother, Gandolfo, into the business to lend support when needed, and in time Gandolfo's wife, Mina, joined the bakery, becoming a valued contributor for many years until her passing. Together, the family built what would become Terranova Bakery. Even as the bakery flourished, Pietro continued delivering bread from house to house for many years. Always looking ahead, he recognized opportunity beyond the ovens, investing in and restoring properties and building a successful real estate portfolio through the same grit that defined everything he did.
Outside of work, Pietro savored life's simple pleasures: a spirited game of Scopa, afternoons at the beach, bocce with his friends, and cheering on his favorite soccer teams.
Anyone who knew Pietro would tell you he was one of the hardest-working people they had ever met. His energy was boundless, his ambition unmatched, and his devotion to his family and his business never faded. His warm smile, generous spirit, and quiet strength touched everyone who crossed his path. Even in his final days, his thoughts remained with the bakery he loved, always asking how business was going and making sure all was well.
Above all, Pietro's greatest pride and deepest love was his family. His three grandsons were the joy of his life and brought him immeasurable happiness.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Vera; his cherished children, Pina Delmonico and her husband, Glenn Delmonico, and Santino Terranova and his wife, Patricia Terranova; his grandsons, Colin, Ethan, and Nicholas; his brother, Gandolfo Terranova; and his sister, Tanina Perretta.
He was preceded in death by his father, Santo Terranova; his mother, Giuseppina La Vecchia Terranova; and his sister-in-law, Mina Terranova.
Pietro leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering devotion to his family. He touched countless lives with his warmth and generosity, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Pietro's memory can be made to the American Heart Association.
The family will be present on Sunday, (7/26) from 12–4 PM and 6–8 PM at Ruggiero & Sons Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:45 AM on Monday, (7/27) at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.
My deepest condolences to the family. May Peter Rest in Peace.
