Edward Natale

Edward "Eddie" Natale, a cherished soul and beacon of warmth, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, at the age of 83 in his beloved hometown of Philadelphia. Born to Edward G. and Marie V. (Tronco) Natale on January 30, 1942, Eddie's life was a tapestry of love, family, and service, woven with threads of joy and music.

Eddie, a proud graduate of Bishop Neumann High School, served his nation with honor as an Air Force veteran. After his discharge from the Airforce, Eddie had multiple careers over the years, with his last being Director of Distribution Services at the former University of the Arts in Philadelphia. Upon his well-earned retirement, Eddie's passion for life did not wane; it flourished as he invested his time in the things he loved most.

A proud Italian-American born and raised in South Philly, Eddie wore his heritage on his sleeve. His love for the culture was evident in his daily life and the stories he shared. Known affectionately as the "Don of Doowop," he found solace and joy in music, especially promoting and attending the Doowop shows at the South Philly String Band Club. His love of music and appreciation for the arts were a gift he generously shared with all who knew him.

Eddie's family was the cornerstone of his existence. He is survived by his loving children: Marie Natale (Bob Holmes) Jennifer McKay (Brian) Andrea Mulligan (Sean) and Jacqueline Sabo (Matthew). His grandchildren, whom he adored and took immense pride in, include Liam McKay (Summer Snyder) McKenna McKay; Jenna Covington (Jeremy); Nadia Diaz; Aidan Diaz; Keira Sabo, and Logan Sabo. Eddie's fur daughter, Maggie, also held a special place in his heart.

His siblings, Carol Ann "Sissy" Palladino (the late Emil), Lewis Natale (the late Carolyn), the late Robert Natale (Joyce), Anthony "Rocky" Natale (the late Frances), Patricia Uditsky (the late Patrick), and Michael Natale (Paula), will remember Eddie for the brotherhood and joy he brought into their lives. Eddie's extended family of cousins, nieces, and nephews, too numerous to name but equally cherished, will miss his presence at family gatherings where his stories, laughter, and wisdom were a highlight.

Eddie's legacy is one of love and creativity. He was a man who saw the beauty in the world and worked to create more of it, whether through music, his wise counsel, or his ability to connect with others on a deeply human level. "La famiglia è tutto" – family is everything – was not just a saying for Eddie; it was his guiding principle. His love for his family was his most profound work of art, a masterpiece that will be cherished by those he leaves behind.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, January 9, 2026 from 6 to 7pm in St. Gabriel's Church, 2917 Dickinson St, Philadelphia, PA 19146. Prayers will start in the church at 7pm. Burial will be at a later date in Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown.

As we bid farewell to Eddie, we do so with the knowledge that his spirit will continue to resonate in the lives he touched. His was a life lived fully, with a heart that was ever-loving and hands that crafted a legacy of wisdom, creativity, and undying affection. Eddie Natale's story is one of a life well-lived and a man well-loved. His memory will be a comfort to all who had the privilege of knowing him.