Benjamin Yannone

A Heartfelt Tribute to a Life Well-Lived, to a Legacy Cherished and a Love and Kindness that Continues to Inspire:
BENJAMIN YANNONE [1927-2025], son of the late Luigi and Adeline (neé DeSimone) Iannone, born in New York City, on July 13, 1927, passed away peacefully, at the age of 97, on March 20, 2025, in Purdys, New York, surrounded by his three children.
Benjamin, a proud Veteran of the United States Army, served at the end of World War II, was a "rifleman," and was stationed in Korea.
While growing up in Harlem, New York, in the 1940's-1950's, Benjamin had his own "Bronx Tale." He learned how to carve meat to perfection and how to become a talented butcher, working alongside his brother, Carmine, at his butcher shop, "Carmine's Meat Market."
Thereafter, he married his beautiful wife, June Caputo, on November 6, 1955, and together they raised three children, Michele, Louis and Adelaide.
Moving to the Soundview Section of the Bronx, New York, and working at Washburn Wire Company, on the lower East Side of Manhattan, Benjamin was employed as a steelworker and was known amongst his co-workers and friends as "Gentle Ben." Later on in his work career, while living in Mamaroneck, he worked at "The Guidance Center," in New Rochelle, as a Supervisor, working with people with learning disabilities, until he retired at age 62.
In the 1970's, Benjamin purchased his first home in Mamaroneck, where he and his wife built a life with their family, falling in love with the beauty of Mamaroneck, the Long Island Sound and the Harbor Island Beach, where they spent most each and every day of the summer doing what they loved.
At home, Benjamin was a supportive husband, a loving father, an amazing Grandpa, and a doting Uncle, lovingly nicknamed, "Uncle Benny." Whether it was watching TV or having a delicious meal with the family, he was always with a smile on his face, conversing, laughing and enjoying everyone around him.
Benjamin was an avid bowler, winning numerous trophies, who had a love for watching/playing sports, and was actively involved in both of his granddaughters' sports events and activities. Benjamin also loved to swim, especially in the ocean waves at Jones Beach. You would think he would make the trip out to Jones just so he can get the Manhattan Clam Chowder in the styrofoam soup cup, as he so loved the Manhattan Clam Chowder at Jones Beach. He did spend the past few years of his life being a jigsaw puzzler, completing many, many puzzles.
Benjamin believed in the power of family and nothing was more important to him. His advice was sought by many and his calm presence was a source of comfort to all who knew him. Benjamin's kindness, warmness, love, generosity, sweetness, smooth and calm temperament and intense love for his family will remain in the hearts of all those who knew him.
Ben is survived by his wife of 69 years, June, daughter, Michele Yannone, and her partner, Steve Popp, son, Louis, and his wife, Michelle, daughter, Adelaide Yannone, and her husband, Vincent Arena, granddaughters, Angela and Maria, and great granddaughters, Adeline and Isla. He was predeceased by his siblings Carmine, Mary, and Nancy.
All are welcome to attend the Celebration of Benjamin's life at Joseph J. Smith Funeral Home, 692 Route Six, Mahopac, New York, on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. His funeral service will start at 7:30 p.m., during the visitation. A private cremation will follow.