Samuel "Sam" Errico

1931 - 2025

Samuel "Sam" Errico, age 93, of Callahan, Florida passed away peacefully on Jan. 26, 2025 to be with our Lord and Savior, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and culinary passion.
He was born in Lyndhurst, New Jersey on April 20, 1931. Born to parents Joseph Errico and Olympia Di'Nisco Errico, who emigrated from Naples, Italy, to New Jersey in the late 1800s. Sam carried forward his family's rich heritage. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Korean War, exemplifying dedication and courage. On Sept. 2, 1967, Sam married Judith L. Errico, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and shared dreams. Together, they built a life that reflected their values and passions.
Sam was deeply devoted to the art of cooking and took immense pride in his work as a restaurateur. He owned and operated restaurants throughout Jacksonville in the early years of his marriage with Judith before relocating to Callahan, where they opened Ricco's Italian Restaurant in Callahan, Florida and later Café Calabria in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Through these establishments, he brought people together over delicious meals and created spaces where community thrived. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Sam found joy in sharing his culinary talents with others. His love for cooking was not just a career, but a way of connecting with those around him. Sam's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and experienced his warmth, generosity, and dedication. May his legacy bring comfort to all who cherished him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Olympia; and wife, Judith L. Errico; son, Anthony Errico; daughter, Janet Errico; granddaughter, Christina Errico; and great-grandson, Bryce Moceri.
Sam leaves behind his children, Joseph (Chris) Errico, Sharon (Alan) Cravey, Kim Reynolds, Samuel (Vernia) Errico, II, and Rachel (Phillip) Coffelt; 12 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.
A graveside service for Sam will be held Friday, Feb. 14, 2025 at 1 p.m. at Jacksonville National Cemetery with Chaplain Jim Cox officiating. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital via www.stjude.org or a military organization of choice.
The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 U.S. 1, Callahan, 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family's guestbook.