Scotti
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Carlo Scotti, 88, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and the sweetest soul to ever walk this earth. He went home to be with Jesus Tuesday, October 28, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter and unforgettable memories.
Born in Naples, Italy, March 14, 1937, to Giuseppe and Rosalda Scotti, he lived through the tumult of war. His early memories were marked by the challenges of war and scarcity. In the 1950s, he left Italy with some of his siblings, embarking on a journey that would lead him to America – a place where he would realize the American dream.
Settling in South Florida, he began his culinary journey as an executive chef at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach. He humorously referred to being “on call” for Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack as “job security”, as Sinatra was a fan of Carlo’s Italian flair, especially his specialty dish of chicken livers.
As he established himself in South Florida, Carlo became a renowned restauranteur, with his restaurants, Lastrada and The Haystack, becoming famous for his garlic knots. He embraced life with passion, creating vibrant dining experiences that reflected his love for food and community.
He loved spending time with family, traveling, coffee, waterskiing, riding his motorcycles, collecting trinkets, but most of all, he loved his wife, Sandra. His favorite song, “God Bless the USA” by Lee Greenwood, reflected his love for his adopted country. He always made those around him laugh and feel loved.
While he never had biological children of his own, he embraced Joey, Chanel, Mike, Linda, and their children as if they were his own. He took immense joy in celebrating special moments, from calling each family member on their birthday and singing “Happy Birthday” in Italian.
“Your kindness, generosity, and love will be deeply missed but forever remembered. Rest in peace, dear Carlo. You will remain in our hearts always,” said a family member.
Memorialization was by cremation.
The family will hold a celebration of life at a later date.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online guestbook at www.pearsondial.com.
Pearson-Dial Funeral Home of Blackshear is honored to serve the Scotti family during this time.
