Carmine Cannavo, 74, passed away on January 30, 2025. Born on August 9, 1950, in Brooklyn, New York, Carmine lived a life guided by faith, family, service and good Italian food. He spent his youth growing up in Sicily and moved back to the United States at 18 years of age. He worked jobs in New York city and Long Island until he joined the United States Air Force where he proudly served during the Vietnam War as a translator. He married his wife, Francine Randazzo, on September 11, 1988. During their honeymoon they traveled down the East Cost of the United States and fell in love with Charleston, SC. They decided to move to South Carolina and build their lives together there. He built a successful career in the food industry as an Italian food salesman. For many years he and his wife Fran lived in Walterboro and were actively involved in the community. They established Carmines Tratoria on Washington Street...a restaurant cherished by the locals...and still in operation today. Carmine was a devoted husband to his wife, Francine “Fran” Randazzo Cannavo. He was a loving father to his daughter Melissa Thomas and her husband Dean Thomas and a proud grandfather to Arabella. He is also survived by his brother Roy Cannavo. He was predeceased by his parents, Bernice and Nicolo Cannavo, as well as his brother Miguel Cannavo. A passionate soccer enthusiast, Carmine was an avid supporter of the Juventus soccer team. His love for the sport extended into coaching; he dedicated years to coaching the high school varsity girls’ soccer team until his daughter Melissa graduated. His mentorship left a lasting impact on many young athletes in his community. Another passion of his included Formula 1 racing with a love for Ferrari. Carmine also had a deep appreciation for history and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others. His faith was central to his life-he cherished God and actively participated in fellowship groups that strengthened both his spiritual journey and connections within the community. A memorial service will be held on March 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Jude’s Anglican Church, located at 907 Wichman Street in Walterboro, South Carolina. A reception will follow in Skardon Hall. Carmine’s legacy of love, dedication, and kindness will be remembered by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing. Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home is assisting the family with services.
