Just over a year ago, we celebrated the 60th wedding anniversary of Venus and Sal, sharing their incredible love story. Today, with heavy hearts, we remember them as they have both passed away due to the recent virus. While their loss is deeply felt, there is solace in knowing they departed this world together, and we envision them Dancing In Heaven.
For years, I’ve been privileged to call Venus and Sal friends. Their lives were an inspiration to many in Monmouth County and beyond. Their story began like a fairy tale: meeting at a high school Valentine’s Day dance and marrying just two months later. From that moment on, they touched the lives of everyone they encountered with their warmth and affection.
Venus and Sal embodied a love story that feels increasingly rare and precious. They were true role models, demonstrating unwavering devotion to each other, their son Billy, their granddaughter Jessie and her husband Danny, and their great-grandchildren Maddie and Mackenzie. Their family was the center of their world, and their love radiated outwards, encompassing all who knew them.
Jessie fondly remembers her grandfather Sal as the guiding “left hand” of her piano playing, a testament to his supportive and nurturing nature. More than music, he instilled in her and her children a love for life, symbolized by his encouragement to always keep “dancing.” This spirit of joy and movement was central to who Sal and Venus were as a couple.
Their son, Billy Pisciotta, is a talented guitar player well-known in the Jersey Shore music scene.
alt: Venus and Sal Pisciotta dancing gracefully at a live music event, showcasing their joyful and enduring love.
Sal and Venus were Billy’s biggest fans, always in the front row at his performances. They wouldn’t just watch; they would dance. Every performance became a celebration of their love, with the audience captivated by their enduring romance and their evident pride in their son. Whether it was a late-night show ending at 1 am, they were there, cheering Billy on until the very last song. Their commitment to family was unwavering and filled with enthusiastic support.
Beyond their family, Venus and Sal possessed a profound faith in God. I often sat with them during church services, as our sons occasionally performed together alongside the late BethAnne Clayton, a powerful singer we also sadly lost this year. Their faith was a quiet strength, a constant presence in their lives that guided them and provided comfort, much like their shared love for dancing.
This year has been marked by immense loss and sorrow, as the insidious virus has taken so many loved ones, particularly among the elderly. Our hearts ache for these losses. Yet, when we think of Sal and Venus, there’s a comforting thought: Sal likely went ahead to prepare the dance floor in heaven, ready to welcome his beautiful Venus so they could dance together once more in eternal bliss. This image brings a sense of peace amidst the grief.
Billy had been selflessly caring for his parents after Sal’s pacemaker surgery. Even in recovery, Sal’s caring nature shone through when he noticed Billy’s cough and insisted on him seeking medical attention, a decision that likely saved Billy from the worst of the virus. However, in a cruel turn, both Venus and Sal succumbed to the coronavirus, passing away within hours of each other in the hospital. The profound bond they shared in life continued even in their passing.
alt: Venus and Sal enjoying a dance at Barnacle Bill’s, a local venue, their faces beaming with happiness and deep connection.
Billy, words cannot express the depth of our sympathy for you. You were the most devoted son anyone could ask for, your love and care for your parents knew no bounds. Until we can gather to properly celebrate the lives of Sal and Venus, please know that you are surrounded by love and support. And take comfort in knowing that your parents now have the best seats in the house, front row in heaven, for every future performance.
Farewell, dear Venus and Sal, the most beautiful couple many of us have ever known. Your love story is etched in our hearts forever. We love you always.
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