Family, Philadelphia mourn beloved Termini Brothers Bakery patriarch

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The second-generation baker who carried on the 104-year legacy of Termini Brothers Bakery has passed away.

Vincent Termini Sr. is being remembered for the devotion he had to his family, his bakery and his customers.

"My father was born in that building the year they opened," said Vincent Termini, Jr., of the building that has been home to the South Philadelphia Bakery since 1938 (the original location was opened across the street in 1921).

Eighty-six-year-old Termini Sr. passed away on Friday.

"My father is somebody we're really gonna miss," said Termini, Jr.

His family, though, is not grieving alone. All of Philadelphia grieves with them. The Termini Brothers Bakery in South Philadelphia was started by Vincent Termini Sr.'s father and uncle. For 104 years, it's been a part of families' lives and holidays, with people lined up overnight on Christmas Eve to get the bakery's famous cannoli and other treats.

Vincent Termini Sr. would be right at the center of a Christmas Eve tradition.

"My father opened the door at 6 a.m. when we opened for Christmas Eve Day," said Termini Jr. "My father was very much about tradition and he loved to see the customers. He saw multi-generations come through that door and he never forgot who they were and he gave hugs."

Vincent Termini Sr. loved his customers just as much as they loved him. He had a connection with them and with his employees whom he often treated like family.

For many customers and community members, quietly, Termini offered a helping hand when they needed it most. The patriarch now leaves a legacy for his children. They vow to continue the traditions that were deepened by a man who made all of Philadelphia feel like family.

"We know what was important to him, and that'll continue for a decade," said Termini, Jr.

Many people are sharing messages and stories of Vincent Termini Sr. on social media. The family is grateful to everyone who has shared their kind words and condolences. They say there will be an opportunity for the public to pay their respects at a memorial, likely in the family's café across the street from the South Philadelphia bakery.