Paul Scala

In Loving Memory of Paolino Scala who passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025. Paolino Scala, a beloved husband, father, devoted gardener, and a man of enduring spirit, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 25, 2025. Born and raised in the rich soil of Marigliano, suburb of Naples, Italy, Paolino's early years were shaped by the rhythms of the land. He was the eighth of nine children born to Annunziata and Gabriele Scala. He grew up as a farmer – hands in the dirt, heart in the fields – cultivating not just crops, but a deep reverence for nature that would remain with him all his life. Paolino's admiration for America began in childhood. His father, Gabriele, had once traveled to the United States to work, but when World War I broke out, he returned to Italy to be with his family. Gabriele would often tell his children that if they wanted to make it in life, America was the land of opportunity. Though they were a poor Italian family- eleven people under one roof - during World War II they would invite the American GIs stationed there for the traditional Sunday feast. They shared what little they had with the Americans, offering food, friendship, and gratitude. These memories stayed with Paolino all his life and helped shape his vision of the country he one daydreamed of calling home. At the age of 39, Paolino made a courageous journey to America, arriving with little more than a suitcase, no knowledge of the English language, and an unwavering dream. Three years later, through hard work and determination, he was able to bring his beloved wife, Giulia, and their two children, Gabriel and Nancy, to join him, reuniting the family and beginning a new chapter together on foreign soil. Ten years later he would buy his first Italian restaurant. It was a resounding success – built not just on great food, but on his passion, hospitality, and relentless work ethic. He would go on to acquire additional restaurants and commercial properties, steadily building a legacy for his family. In just twenty short years after arriving in America, Paolino had achieved what he once only dreamed of – the American dream. Despite his business success, Paolino remained deeply connected to the simple joys of life. Every spring, he planted a garden, nurturing vegetables, flowers, fruit trees with the same care he gave his family. Every fall, he made wine- a ritual not just to taste but of memory, heritage, and togetherness. His home was always full of the things that mattered most: the smell of tomato sauce simmering, fresh basil, the sounds of Mario Merola, Gianni Morandi, Luciano Pavarotti playing in the background and the comfort of knowing you were loved. Proceeded are his wife, Giulia, and his eight brothers and sisters: Ettore, Domenico, Rosa, Marta, Maria, Alessandro, Giovanni and Carmela. Paolino is survived by his loving children, Gabriel and Nancy, and numerous nieces, nephew and cousins who carry forward his legacy in Italy, whose lives were touched by his quiet wisdom and enduring kindness. Visitation will be held at 9 to 10 am Friday, May 9 at the Fiore-Buckley Funeral Home, 236 Monmouth Road, Oakhurst, Ocean Township, to honor and celebrate Paolino's life, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 am at St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church, 800 Ocean Avenue, Long Branch, NJ. Following the service, he will be transported to his beloved Italy, where he will be laid to rest beside his wife, Giulia-reunited at last, in the land that shaped them both. To know Paolino was to feel grounded-like the earth he so cherished. He leaves behind a world richer for his presence, and a family who will never forget the roots he gave them. May his memory be a blessing, and may he rest in peace among the fields he loved. For condolences, please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.