Alfonso Joseph Caruana, fondly known to all as “Sonny” or “Poncho” peacefully passed away from natural causes on January 16, 2025, in Virginia Beach. Born on April 7, 1935, in New York City, Sonny lived a full STRESS FREE life of 89 years.
Sonny found his calling in the world of hospitality, where he delighted in bringing joy to others through his work at Cogans Pizza. His passion for service and warm personality left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Sonny cherished simple pleasures, pastimes and wardrobe. He was a t-shirt, ball-cap and tennis shoe guy. He was an avid enthusiast of horse feeding and horse racing and was especially fond of his four-legged friends Quatro and Rascal. He indulged in good food like pasta and meatballs paired with a Dr. Pepper or Pepsi. His favorite places to eat were Popeye’s, Cogans Pizza, Uncle Als and Doumar’s. Shopping always put a smile on his face, especially in Walmart. He never missed weekly WWE wrestling and he loved John Wayne movies and country music.
Sonny was preceded in death by his beloved parents, James and Katherine Caruana and his brother, Philip. He is survived by loved ones who were dear to his heart: Grace, Cugino, Christy, Gina, Mark and families: Caruana, Geer, South, Pucillo, Wagner, Pocta, Kelly, Bridges and Peele and Friends: Deb, Tyrone, Cogans Pizza Staff, Tracey, Kim, LouAnne, Jessie, Lynwood and Dorothy. They will forever cherish the memories they shared with Sonny.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to his dedicated caregivers, Amanda, Lynette, CeCe, Raven, Kewana, Cookie and Tyler, whose love and support meant the world to Sonny.
A special thank you to Myles for praying over Sonny.
Lastly, Sonny loved unconditionally and was GRATEFUL for even the smallest gestures and he ALWAYS expressed a thank you. He was a TRUE God sent BLESSING. Those who had the opportunity to know him are comforted knowing he is at peace with his family whom he frequently expressed he missed.
A celebration of Life will be planned in the future at Cogans Pizza in Norfolk (original location) Gina will send out info.