Salvatore Raymond LaBianca

Salvatore Raymond "Sonny" La Bianca, 87, passed away on March 21, 2025, in Manahawkin, New Jersey. Born on March 14, 1938, in the Bronx, New York, Sonny lived a life defined by dedication to family, service to his community, and an unwavering commitment to his values.Sonny attended P.S. 127 in the Bronx before pursuing further training with the NYC Bricklayers Union and later the NYPD Police Academy. His career as a Transit Police Officer with the NYPD was marked by bravery and distinction. Officer La Bianca, Shield #2498, received several commendations for his service, including the Police Combat Cross, Meritorious Police Duty award, and the Purple Shield. His career was cut short in 1971 due to injuries sustained during the Black Panther/Earth Day riots on April 22, 1970. Despite this early retirement from law enforcement, Sonny remained a steadfast figure of strength and resilience.

Beyond his career in law enforcement, Sonny had a deep passion for the outdoors. An avid hunter, boater, and fisherman, he spent countless hours on the Atlantic Ocean alongside his brother Carmine. His love for hunting was shared with his brother-in-law Artie Schmitt and childhood friend Boris Zykoff. Together they created lasting memories in nature's embrace.

Sonny also had an artistic side-he co-owned The Kenya Studio in the Bronx during the 1970s and '80s with his partner Louis Filardi. Their taxidermy work gained national recognition and was featured in Hollywood films as well as an acclaimed African display at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. This exhibit garnered worldwide attention and was highlighted in several newspapers as a pinnacle achievement of their craft.

Music was another of Sonny's many talents; as a young man, he performed in talent shows and embraced music as a creative outlet throughout his life. Above all else, he cherished his role as a husband and father. Alongside his beloved wife Joan-his partner of 68 years-he raised three sons with strong values of respect, loyalty, and honor.

Sonny is survived by his devoted wife Joan; sons Robert (Pamela) and John (Lori) La Bianca; brother-in-law Arthur Schmitt; sister-in law Jean La Bianca. Grandchildren Thomas, Michael, Anthony, Timothy, Jennifer, Krista, Olivia, Emily, Abigail, Ruby La Bianca and Amanda Pratt. He was preceded in death by his son Joseph; parents Giuseppe and Dorothea; parents-in-law Arthur and Josephine (Burke) Schmitt : sisters Francine (Joseph) Casio and Rosaria (Anthony) Rumore; brothers Joseph (Carol), Mario (Gloria), and Victor Carmine La Bianca; and sister-in-law Nancy Schmitt.

Sonny worshipped at St. Dominic's Catholic Church in the Bronx. He carried strong family values throughout his life and remained a steadfast presence for those who needed him most. His work ethic was unmatched-at times working three jobs early in his marriage to provide for those he loved.

Sonny's legacy is one of strength, devotion, and integrity-a life well-lived that will be remembered by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.