Vincent Prochilo

Vincent Prochilo, 94, of North Plainfield died peacefully surrounded by his family on May 12, 2023.

Vincent was born on October 10th, 1928 to Mr. Antonio & Mrs. Maria Giuseppe Prochilo. He was the eldest of 6. He was born in Oppido Mamertina, province of Reggio Calabria - at the very southern tip of the Boot. He grew up in abject poverty during the Great Depression. He left home at 16 to be a tailor's apprentice, with nothing but the lint in his pockets, under the tutelage of his elder cousin in Rome. There he learned the trade well. He became so proficient in his trade that he could soon put a suit together by hand from a pile of rags - that would make an Armani look subpar.

He came to the United  States in the 1950'a to pursue his American Dream as so many Europeans did back then. He opened his own tailor shop in Summit, New Jersey and built a legacy, with just a needle and thread. He was one of the last "old world" European tailors with a level of talent and artistry few would achieve.

Vincent’s passions & endeavors included sewing, alterations & suit-making. He loved his family deeply and would do anything for them.

Vincent is predeceased by his parents and his first wife, Vincenza Zappia Prochilo, as well as his siblings, Jesse Prochilo (the 1st), his only sister Clementina Fidele Prochilo, Gaetano Prochilo & Joseph Prochilo (brothers).

He is survived by his wife, Antonietta (Marino) Prochilo, his sons, Anthony and Rick, his daughter, Josephine. He is also survived by his grandsons Eric and Nick Prochilo, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will miss him dearly, as well as his brother Jesse Prochilo (the 2nd).

His talent and legacy will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Cremation will be private.

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