Arthur J. Pagnini

Arthur J. Pagnini

Arthur J. Pagnini, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, peacefully transitioned at the age of 94. Art was born in Brooklyn, NY, on March 14, 1931, to Angela and Severino Pagnini. Art had two older sisters, Sally and Tina. His father was thrilled to have a son.

Art had a strong work ethic and contributed to his family's income during the depression. His first job was delivering groceries by bicycle for ten dollars per week. He was named valedictorian of his High School class, but never made his speech due to a prank played by his classmates. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1952 and was a proud Marine his entire life.

He is survived by his daughters, Cori McNerney (Kevin) and Angela Amoah (Dickson); his daughter-in-law, Janice Pagnini; his grandchildren, Kyle McNerney, Jillian Pagnini (Ken), Caitlyn McNerney (Jake), Elise Pagnini (Mike), Rebecca Pagnini, Sarah Pagnini, and Anthony Amoah; his nieces, Cathy Hand, Carol Atkinson; and nephew, Roger Hand. His great-grandchildren include Logan, Kendall, Declan, Declan, Owen, Collin, James, Andrew, and Abigail. He also leaves behind his precious fat cats, Mickey Rooney and Ava Gardner.

He was especially looking forward to reuniting with his infant daughter, Joyce; his beloved son, Chip (Arthur); and his sisters, Tina and Sally.

Art dedicated the majority of his career to the insurance industry, working in New York, Chicago, and Richmond. He considered Virginia home. He concluded his professional journey as a Senior Vice President at Markel. He found retirement boring. Ever the salesman, he then sold cars for several years. Later, as a driver for LabCorp, he became a familiar face to nurses and administrators throughout Richmond. He continued to work until he was 84.

He had a generous spirit, a wicked sense of humor, enjoyed telling stories, and loved playing pranks. He was larger than life, a real charmer and a hugger. His culinary abilities were outstanding. Family and friends enjoyed Seven Fishes every Christmas Eve. He introduced many people to pignoli cookies, quaresimali, and broccoli rabe. He enjoyed growing tomatoes and basil and using them for homemade sauce. He could tempt anyone with his sausages, meatballs, pasta, and sauce.

A gathering of friends and family will be held at Bliley's, 8510 Staples Mill Road in Richmond, VA, on Monday, October 20th, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 7:30 p.m., with a Christian Wake service to follow at 7:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Ashland, VA, on Tuesday, October 21st at 11 a.m. Interment to follow in Woodland Cemetery.