Vito (Bill) Minerva

Vito Minerva, who went by the name Bill, passed from this Earth peacefully on November 22, 2023, at the age of 88. Bill’s health had deteriorated over the past couple of years due to congestive heart failure, however his warmth and sense of humor remained strong right to the very end. They truly were the trademarks that made Bill a ray of sunshine on this world, making everyone he knew feel special and putting a smile on their faces.

Bill was born on June 29, 1935, in Brooklyn, N.Y. to Leonard and Jennie Minerva along with his sister Annie. Bill’s lifelong sweetheart was his beloved wife of 58 years, Arlene Butera Minerva, who he married on May 23, 1965. Together they raised their family in Selden, NY, before retiring to Clayton, N.C.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, sister, aunts, uncles and countless friends, all of whom were undoubtedly waiting at Heaven’s gates to welcome him with open arms and likely a poker game.

Bill is survived by his wife Arlene, six children and their spouses, 22 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

There will be a mass on Saturday, December 16 at 10 am, followed by a Celebration of Life reception at St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church in Clayton, N.C.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Church Address:
Saint Ann Catholic Church
4057 US-70 BUS HWY W
Clayton, NC 27520