Years after the popular series “The Sopranos” concluded, its stars gathered once more, this time to bid a heartfelt farewell to Vincent Pastore. On Thursday, Pastore was laid to rest in New York, with family and friends present to honor his memory. One of his co-stars, Steven Van Zandt, participated as a pallbearer, playing a role in carrying Pastore’s casket, which was draped with an American flag as a tribute to his service in the Navy.
Pastore’s daughter commemorated her father, best known for portraying Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero, as a “giving person.” She reflected on his ability to live out his dreams and acknowledged his appreciation for his fortune. During the emotional funeral service, she remarked, “He was a man who lived out his dreams … but he knew how lucky he was,” as reported by Page Six.
‘THE SOPRANOS’ ACTOR VINCENT PASTORE DEAD AT 80
Pallbearers, including Steven Van Zandt, carried Vincent Pastore’s casket during the funeral at Holy Family Church in New Rochelle, N.Y., on August 6, according to James Keivom.
“I think that’s why he tried to share as much of it with as many people as possible,” she added. Pastore was known for his generosity, whether offering big cash tips or connecting personally by shaking hands with every police officer he encountered.
Van Zandt expressed to the outlet about his regular communications with Pastore before his passing, saying, “We just happened to call him two days ago. The day before he died, we luckily just happened to call him. He was one of a kind, and we’ll miss him very much.”
In the days following his death, Stephen Villano, Pastore’s “right-hand man,” spoke to the Post, highlighting that the actor was vastly different from the roles he portrayed. Villano commented, “He said, ‘I’m an actor. I play a character.’ So, people would think that this is the man, but that wasn’t the man.” Villano emphasized Pastore’s generosity and kindness, his genuine care for neighbors, charities, and fundraising events.
Supporting veterans, U.S. troops, and police departments stood among Pastore’s commitments. Villano added, “He supported St. Jude’s [Children’s Research Hospital], and he supported the NYPD.”
Pastore passed away on August 1. His manager, Robert Attermann, noted, “Vinny passed away either yesterday or today at home in The Bronx.” Attermann explained the privilege he felt representing Pastore for over 30 years. To the world, Pastore would be remembered as “Big Pussy,” but those who knew him valued much more in his character.
Vincent Pastore is survived by his daughter Renee. His career spanned various notable appearances including “Blue Bloods,” “Law & Order,” “General Hospital,” “Bull,” “Pair of Kings,” “Hawaii Five-0,” and he lent his voice to “Yellowjackets.” He was also featured in films like “Goodfellas,” “A Bronx Tale,” “Carlito’s Way,” “Gotti,” “Once Upon a Time in Brooklyn,” and “Mickey Blue Eyes.”
Reflecting on Pastore’s love for acting, Attermann described his passion for the craft and consistent encouragement and support for young actors, asserting, “He loved being an actor.”
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