Salvador Francis Giuffria

Salvador Francis ""Sal"" Giuffria, age 87, passed away Monday, June 29, 2015 peacefully at sunrise in his Gulfport home.
Sal was born August 3, 1927 in Long Beach, the town he called home for most of his life. Sal was an Italian-American and devout Catholic. Salvador proudly served in the Merchant Marines. He then returned home to play football and graduate from Long Beach High School. Sal was a master carpenter whose career began at Southern Woodworks. He used his skills throughout his dedicated work at the historic Friendship House and miniature putt-putt for Jim and Mary Myers, the Lobe Theater in Long Beach, the Deer Ranch, and many years as general manager of Marine Life until Hurricane Katrina. Sal was also a public servant, having been elected city alderman in Long Beach for three terms.
Family often referred to Sal and Carol's home as the ""Holiday Inn,"" as it was a place anyone could go for food, entertainment, and comfort. The homes so many people fondly remember were built not only with love, but also often with his own hands. If Sal did not build the home himself, he restored it with his unique touch and talent. Sal frequently hosted fish-fries for all family and friends to attend. Sal was a strong man but not afraid to shed a tear. He exemplified kindness and compassion in all he did. He had a knack for practical jokes and humor, often leaving people in tears from laughter. Sal also loved to travel with his wife Carol. Together they explored the United States, Europe, and many tropical islands. Sal's other hobbies and interests included: tennis, fishing, water skiing, boating, billiards, darts, and bocce ball. But, perhaps his greatest interest was being of service to others.
Mr. Giuffria is survived by his wife of 70 years Carol Lacy Giuffria and four daughters (the 4 M's) Marie (Norman) Stanbro, Madelyn (Richard) Dabbs of Flat Rock, NC, Mary Ellen (Freddie)Duncan of Brookhaven, MS and Malissa (Todd) Arnold. He is also survived by one brother, Peter A Giuffria, of Fultondale, AL. Sal is also survived by his grandchildren who include: Norman, Dennis, Natalie, and Susan (of Marie Stanbro), Brandy and Brittany (of Madelyn Dabbs), and Jenny and Heather (of Mary Duncan). Additionally, Sal is survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren who were fortunate enough to know his loving and generous spirit.
He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Mary Giuffria, his brothers infant Pasquale, twins Lewis and Pos, a sister, Felicia Verdigets, and brothers, Joseph, Eugene, and Guy.
Sal could often be heard saying, ""Take me home where I belong."" May all of his loved ones know he is now home where he belongs. For those who wish to pay their respects, services will be held on Wednesday, July 1 at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Long Beach, MS. Visitation will begin at 10AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM and a funeral procession to Long Beach City Cemetery will follow. Family and friends may visit the home of Sal and Carol for snacks, beverages, and story-telling after the services.
The RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, Gulfport, is serving the family, and an online guestbook may be signed at www.riemannfamily.com