Raffaele Americo Sgambato Sr.

In Loving Memory of a Beloved Father, Husband, and Friend

It is with profound sadness and immeasurable love that we announce the passing of Raffaele “Ralph” Americo Sgambato Sr, who left this world on July 19th, 2026 at the age of 81. While words can never fully capture the life of a person we love so deeply, we can celebrate the memories, laughter, lessons, and love he leaves behind. Ralph was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and a true friend to so many. He was a man who believed that family came first. He worked hard, loved deeply, and would do whatever he could for the people he cared about. His presence could fill a room, whether through his laughter, his stories, his sense of humor, or simply the comfort of knowing he was there. For 53 years, he shared a beautiful life with his beloved wife, Josephine S. Sgambato. Their journey together was filled with memories, challenges, celebrations, and a love that continued to grow through the years. Their marriage was a testament to commitment, partnership, and choosing one another through every season of life. To his children, Ralph, Stephen and Christina was more than a father. He was a teacher, protector, supporter, and sometimes the voice of reason—even when they didn’t necessarily want to hear it. He taught his family through the way he lived: to work hard, love fiercely, laugh often, and never forget the importance of family. And then came the grandchildren — Gavin, Angelo and Alden the ones who had a special way of making his heart a little bigger. He treasured every moment with them, from the ordinary everyday memories to the milestones they shared. His love will continue through the stories they tell, the traditions they carry on, and the pieces of him they see in themselves. One of the many chapters of his life that he could be proud of was his service in the United States Navy. Serving his country was more than a duty—it was a reflection of his character, discipline, courage, and commitment. His time in the Navy helped shape the man so many came to know and love: dependable, resilient, and always willing to do what needed to be done. But while his military service was an important part of his story, his greatest pride was his family. But perhaps what will be remembered most is the way he made people feel. Loved. Protected. Accepted. At home. His life was not measured simply by the years he lived, but by the lives he touched along the way. His greatest legacy will not be found in possessions or accomplishments, but in the people who carry his love forward.

Ralph is survived by his beloved wife, Josphine S. Sgambato; children Ralph Sgambato with his wife Loni, Stephen Sgambato and Christina Garcia; with her husband Peter, grandchildren Gavin, Angelo and Alden; and countless family members and friends who were blessed to know and love him. Though our hearts are broken by his absence, we will choose to celebrate his life rather than only mourn his passing. We will tell his stories. We will laugh at the memories. We will keep his traditions alive. We will say the things he taught us when we find ourselves in moments when we need his wisdom most. And we will love our families a little harder because he showed us just how precious that love truly is.

Memorial Mass & Celebration of LifeA Memorial Mass honoring Ralph will be held on Friday August 21st, 2026 at 10:00AM at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, located at 2555 NE Savannah Road, Jensen Beach, FL. 34957 Following the Mass, family and friends are invited to join together for a Celebration of Life Reception at the church hall from after the mass. The family welcomes everyone who knew and loved Ralph to come together, share stories, remember the good times, and celebrate a life that meant so much to so many. In lieu of flowers, the family may request Tunnel to Towers, American Diabetes Association, America Cancer Society, and Alzheimer’s Association. A piece of our hearts left with him, but a piece of him will live forever in each of us. Until we meet again, Dad. You were loved more than words could ever express, and you will be missed more than words could ever say. Rest peacefully. Your work here is done, but your legacy lives on.