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PORT RICHMOND COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT.
Passing of Long Time Port Richmond Business owner and Resident; Silvio "Benny The Tailor" Cerbone.
The Port Richmond North Shore Alliance joins our community
in mourning the passing of Silvio Cerbone, affectionately known to all as
“Benny The Tailor.” An immigrant, like many in our community, who came to
America in pursuit of the American Dream, Mr. Cerbone chose to build that
dream right here in Port Richmond. For more than 30 years, his tailoring shop
on Port Richmond Avenue stood as a staple of craftsmanship and dedication.
Known for his impeccable custom suits and expert alterations for both
men and women, Benny’s talent was matched only by his work ethic
and love for the community. His compassion extended to many in need,
Mr. Cerbone offered at times FREE tailoring and at times provided a custom made suit at no cost.
He made Port Richmond his home, raised his family here, and invested more than four decades into strengthening the fabric of our neighborhood, long past his retirement. With his unmistakable snowflake-white thick hair and ever-present smile, Mr. Cerbone was a familiar and comforting sight along our streets.
Our Vice Chair, Mario Buonviaggio, fondly recalls seeing Benny on Sunday mornings walking the neighborhood, shopping at local bakeries, and stopping in at the D'Annunzio Italian-American Bocce Club which was also located on port Richmond Avenue, to visit friends.
Quote from Mike Burke (Denino's): Benny was more than just a small business owner in Port Richmond, he was part of the very fabric of this community. His presence was felt everywhere along the neighborhood, including here at Denino's Pizza & Tavern.
We always welcomed him warmly whenever he stopped in to say hello to our family. Benny represented what makes this avenue special, hardworking immigrants who come here to achieve the American Dream and, in doing so, strengthen the entire community.
Because of pioneers like Benny the Tailor, our avenue continues to thrive with small businesses built on dedication, pride, and family values.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Cerbone family. He will always be remembered.”
The Denino’s Family
Joseph Tirone quoted as saying: “Silvio ‘Benny The Tailor’ Cerbone and I shared more than just years in the same industry — we shared a friendship and a deep love for Port Richmond Avenue. For decades, we stood side by side as small business owners, building relationships not just with customers, but with families and fellow merchants along the avenue.
Benny was a true pioneer — a craftsman who took pride in his work and a giver who never hesitated to support his community. Another beautiful piece of Port Richmond’s history has left us, but his legacy will always remain woven into the fabric of this neighborhood.
On behalf of Tirone Shoes, we extend our most sincere condolences to the Cerbone family. He will be greatly missed.”
— Joe Tirone, Tirone Shoes (family)
"Benny the Tailor" stands among the many small business pioneers who helped create the small business renaissance along Port Richmond Avenue. His craftsmanship, warmth, and unwavering pride in his adopted home will never be forgotten.
Rest well, Mr. Cerbone: “Benny The Tailor.”
Your legacy is stitched into the heart of Port Richmond.
Review your Photo & Bio and Banner below.
David W. Wallace
U.S. Marine Corps
1964 - 1975
Vietnam
Staff Sergeant David William Wallace, a Staten Island native, joined USMC at the ripe age of 18. He served his country proudly and completed 2 tours in the Vietnam war. A military heavy equipment operator who was also a sharp shooter. He received the following commendations; Purple Heart, Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Commendation, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal.
David was stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA, and Camp LeJune, NC. David was an honorable man. He married his childhood sweetheart Adrienne; they had three daughters, Shenequa, Tina, and Christaylia.
After returning from the Vietnam war David, his wife and their children moved back to NY. They briefly returned to SI, before finally settling in Jamaica Queens. He worked as a Pressman for many years. As a pressman he was also a union representative and shop steward. He retired in 2006; David and his wife relocated to North Carolina and brought a home. He became ill shortly after retiring and succumbed to his illness in 2007. David is survived by his wife Adrienne, 3 daughters, 12 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren.
David followed the military tradition; his father Fairfield was a WWI Army veteran. His grandson Sherard Edwards continues the family military legacy. He is also the younger brother of Leon J. Wallace.
Submitted by Christaylia Wallace-Dutailly and Sponsored by Lisa Wallace
