Salvatore J. Carrubba, III

Salvatore Carrubba, III, 66, of Bluffton, South Carolina, passed away on August 17, 2025.

Sal was born on October 30, 1958, in Sharon, CT, the son of Salvatore J. Carrubba, Jr. and Joyce Pletzer Polonski. He grew up in Millbrook, New York, and graduated from Our Lady of Lourdes High School in 1976, later earning a degree from Dutchess Community College in 1978.

In 1996, Sal moved to Tennessee, where he enjoyed hunting and fishing on his mountain. He worked for nearly 20 years at the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge before retiring in 2023 and relocating to Bluffton, South Carolina.

Sal had a gift for connection—he never met a stranger. Whether chatting with a stranger or making fast friends on the pickle ball courts at Palmetto Bluff and Sun City, he was a beloved presence. He was adventurous and full of life, finding joy in flying with Brien, playing softball, fishing, walking in the morning sun, and relaxing on the beaches of Costa Rica.

He was the life of the party, with a sense of humor just like his father’s and mannerisms that reminded many of an old Italian soul. He loved deeply—his daughter, sisters, brother, granddaughter, and especially his beloved mother. He cherished family reunions, cooking feasts (especially his famous sauce and meatballs), and feeding everyone.

Sal’s days were filled with sunshine, poolside laughs, and games with countless friends. He was truly living his perfect life, surrounded by people who adored him.

Sal is survived by his mother, Joyce Polonski; his daughter, Erika Powell (Will); his granddaughter, Grace; his sisters, Julianne Ward (Brien) and Rose Canavan; and his twin brother, Joseph Carrubba (Linda). He was preceded in death by his father, Salvatore Carrubba, Jr. and stepfather, Richard Polonski.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, August 28 at 11 am at Sauls Funeral Home, 90 Simmonsville Rd., Bluffton with a reception to follow.

A second service will be held in Millbrook, NY in the coming months, with details to be shared when available.