Royal Augusto Agnoli

Royal Augusto Agnoli, 92, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, in Santa Barbara, California. Born on July 7, 1932, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Royal began a lifelong career in construction and tile at the young age of 14. A skilled craftsman, he eventually became a general and tile contractor, and in 1962, he moved to Santa Barbara, where he founded and ran his own successful business, A & A Royal Tile Co. He took great pride in his work and was known for his dedication and artistry. His love for his work left a lasting legacy. You can find his tile work and craftsmanship in homes and buildings throughout Santa Barbara and Goleta, and even at the Santa Barbara Zoo.

Royal married the love of his life, Anna, in 1961, and together they built a life filled with family, including 3 children – Anna, Christian and Marie – travel, and shared passions. He had a special love for animals and raised birds – especially fancy pigeons – since boyhood. He was rarely without a dog by his side. Royal also had a passion for travel, particularly cruises, and found great joy in good food, especially Italian and BBQ, and the music and videos of Dean Martin.

One of his greatest joys was gathering the whole family together for a meal; whether it was a backyard or park barbecue, or a home-cooked feast for a holiday.

He is survived by his children Chris Agnoli (Tina) and Marie Reardon (Sean); his son-in-law Pat Pappalardo; his sister Louise Antignani (Mario- deceased); his sister-in-law Liliana Murgia (Alberto) six beloved grandchildren: Ariana, Katherine, Michael, Marina, Giada, and Chiara; one cherished great-grandchild, Giovani, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Anna Agnoli; his daughter, Anna Pappalardo; and his sister, Eleanora Dusi (Gimo).

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful community of support that surrounded Royal over the years, especially the team at Vista del Monte, Dr. Robert Byers, Dr. David Gillon—who saved his life three times—and the compassionate caregivers from The Assisted team. Your care and kindness meant the world to him and to all who loved him.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at San Roque Church in Santa Barbara to honor and celebrate Royal’s life. Reception to follow.

Royal’s legacy lives on in the love he gave, the work he cherished, and the family and friends he inspired.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Santa Barbara Humane in honor of Royal’s lifelong love for animals.