Fairfield Glade, TN - Vincent Anthony Fodera, 88, of Crossville, passed away on Feb. 10, 2026 at Life Care Center of Crossville.

Vincent "VINNY" was born on Oct. 12,1937 in Brooklyn, NY and was the son of proud Italian immigrants, the late Joseph Fodera and Mary (Bologna) Fodera. He married his "beautiful bride" Phyllis on Nov. 14,1959 and they were blessed to celebrate 66 years of marriage before his passing.

Vincent served in the United States Army. Upon his return from service, he worked as a bricklayer, then construction superintendent for New York Department of Public Works. In addition, he worked as general contractor and owned a successful general contracting business which he maintained for most of his adult life.

Vinny loved food, especially Italian food. He loved to cook and would make his own sausage, gnocchi and cure his own prosciutto, as well as many other authentic Italian dishes like octopus, mussels, or tripe to name a few. He even made his own ricotta and mozzarella.

He loved to grow his own vegetables and always had a fig tree. His grandchildren have fond memories of his artichokes and making cannoli with him on the holidays. He loved the woods, the mountains and especially his hunting "castle" in Pennsylvania that he shared with his son and nephews.

Vinny was known for his strength, unwavering determination and hard work no matter the circumstance — he blacktopped the driveway a few years ago while sitting on his rollator walker.

Most importantly, Vinny loved his family deeply. They were the center of his world, his truest joy and he was endlessly proud of each one of them. The love, strength and determination he instilled in all of his children and grandchildren will live on forever.

Vincent is survived by his wife, Phyllis Fodera; daughters, LoriAnn (Daryl) Niceley and Lisa Ann (Thomas) Apgar; grandchildren, Danielle, Alexa, Madison, Tommy, Brianna, Michael and Daniel; and sister, Ann LaFalce. In addition to his parents, Vincent is preceded by his son, Vincent A. (Kristi) Fodera Jr.; his brother, Joseph Fodera, and his sister, Josephine Muscari.

Favorite song: "My Way" — Frank Sinatra.

Favorite saying: "Sempre Avante" — English translation: "Always Forward."

Funeral Mass: Feb. 25, 2026 at 10 a.m. Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 7503 Peavine Rd. Fairfield Glade, TN 38558.

For those unable to attend in person, the funeral mass will be live-streamed on this day.

To view the service via live-stream, please visit saintfrancisfairfield.org and scroll to livestream. Click on livestream and scroll until reaching the Funeral Mass for Vincent Fodera.