Rocco Anthony Doino

Rocco A. Doino of Pelham Manor, New York, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2026, at the age of 95.

Born in Manhattan to Rocco and Frances Doino, Rocco was the middle of six children. He was raised in East Harlem, where he attended Our Lady Queen of Angels Elementary School and Benjamin Franklin High School. As a young man, Rocco enjoyed playing basketball for the Boys Club and stickball with his friends in the neighborhood.

Following high school, Rocco enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served as a Sergeant during the Korean War. While stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, he continued his love of basketball, playing for the Marine Corps basketball team.

Upon returning from Korea, Rocco met the love of his life, Bridie Gallagher, at her parents’ establishment, The Barrel Bar, in East Harlem. The two dated for two years while Rocco continued his military service, maintaining their relationship through letters. When Rocco returned to Harlem in 1954, their courtship continued, and in 1955 they were married at St. Monica’s Church in Yorkville.

Rocco and Bridie began their married life in the Morris Park section of the Bronx, where they raised their family. Rocco worked for Ballantine Beer as a district manager in Manhattan. After retiring in 1974, he began a new chapter as the owner of Monro Wine & Spirits on East End Avenue. He quickly became a familiar and beloved figure in the neighborhood. With his strong personality, genuine interest in people, and love of community, Rocco was affectionately known as the “Mayor of East End Avenue.”

Sports were a lifelong passion for Rocco, particularly basketball. He coached all of his children and approached the game with remarkable dedication and curiosity, following it almost scientifically and studying every aspect of the sport. He was also an avid baseball fan and devoted Yankees supporter, bringing the same analytical mind and enthusiasm to every game.

Yet, above all else, Rocco’s greatest passion was his family. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of his world, and they naturally gravitated toward him. He taught them how to play sports, how to keep a poker face, and, most importantly, how to grow into good and caring people. His lessons went far beyond the playing field. Through his example, he taught them the importance of loyalty, perseverance, faith, kindness, and family.

Rocco was a man of strong faith and quiet strength. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was steadfast, dependable, and someone who gave those around him a deep sense of security. He listened more than he spoke, but when he did speak, his words carried meaning. He had a special ability to draw people toward him, particularly those who were fragile or in need, and he was always ready with encouragement and support.

Rocco will be remembered for his strength, his loyalty, his sense of humor, his love of sports, and, most of all, the love he gave so generously to his family. His presence brought comfort to those around him, and his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.

Rocco is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Bridie; his children, Michael (Arleen) Doino, John (Kim) Doino, Maureen (Michael) Devine, and Bridget (Anthony) Spallone; and his grandchildren, Michael (Mary) Doino, Joseph (Maggie) Doino, Maryellen Doino, Grace Doino, Brittany Doino, Lindsey (Kyle) Jones, Clare Gallagher Spallone, Sam (Anna) Spallone, Peter Spallone, and Sophia Spallone. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Spencer Jones, Parker Jones, James Doino, Evelyn Doino, Ruby Jean Doino, and Rocco Doino; and his sister, Carol McKenna.

He was predeceased by his beloved children, Robert and Peter Doino, and by his siblings, Mary, James, Anthony, and Robert.

Rocco will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will remain a blessing to those who loved him.

A celebration of Rocco’s life will take place at Pelham Funeral Home, 64 Lincoln Avenue, Pelham, New York, on Thursday, October 1, from 4:00–8:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 575 Fowler Avenue, Pelham, New York, on Friday, October 2, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Raymond’s Cemetery in the Bronx.

For more information or to leave a condolence, please visit www.pelhamfuneral.com.