Peter Belmonte

Peter “Pete” Belmonte, a man whose steadfast spirit and fierce devotion to family defined a lifetime, passed away on May 17, 2026, in Oxford, North Carolina. Born on May 2, 1947, in New York City, NY, Pete forged a path marked by strength, resilience, and an unyielding sense of loyalty.

From his earliest days, Pete’s character was unmistakable. Stubborn and hard-headed, opinionated to a fault, he insisted his way was the only way—but always had an open heart beneath that stubborn exterior. A true blue soul, he would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need, embodying a generosity of spirit that touched all who knew him.

Pete’s devotion to his country was unwavering; he proudly served in the Navy from 1964 until 1968. This chapter of service shaped his pride, forging a deep and heartfelt sense of duty that stayed with him through all other endeavors.

By trade, Pete was an iron worker for 23 years, constructing the skeletons of the cities and towns that grew around him. His craftsmanship extended further as a carpenter and house builder—a master of creating foundations both literal and metaphorical. His work was as solid and enduring as his character.

Outside of work, Pete found joy in the simple and profound. Horses were a lifelong passion, a symbol of freedom and grace that echoed through his memories. He was also an ardent lover of his grandchildren, showering them with affection and pride. Wherever Pete went, his beloved pups, Jake and Tia, were faithfully by his side, offering companionship and comfort. It was not unusual to find him nestled under the warmth of his heated blanket, with Jake and Tia loyally close.

Pete’s family was the core of his existence. Survived by his loving and devoted wife, Heather Banik Belmonte; daughters, Robin Walton (Phil), Danielle Arentsen (Joe), and Kim Watts (Chad); grandchildren Jordan Belmonte (Jeff Paine), Sara Walton, Tanner Walton, Katelyn Watts, Joseph Arentsen, Landon Walton, and Dylan Watts; and great-grandchildren Josie Boyce, Ozzie Paine, Addison Boyce, and Monte “Trouble” Paine, he leaves behind a legacy rich with love. Pete also leaves in his memory numerous cherished friends and extended family who will carry fragments of his strength and spirit forward.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Salvatore Belmonte and Fanny J. Cerniglia Belmonte; his grandson Ty Combs; and siblings Daniel Belmonte, Joe Belmonte, Josephine Hines, Maggie Arcamone, and Ann Ranazzo.

Pete’s life will be celebrated on May 22, 2026, at the Gentry-Newell & Vaughn Funeral Home, located at 503 College St, Oxford, NC 27565. The ceremony will begin at 11:00 AM and conclude at noon. This celebration of life will honor a man whose fiery will and generous heart left its mark indelibly on all who knew him. The family invites everyone to the Home to share in fellowship, good food and many stories of Pete's life.

Pete Belmonte was a man who didn’t just live—he carved his existence with the grit and determination that echoed through his every action. He was stubborn, opinionated, fiercely loyal, and deeply loving. His legacy is not merely in the structures he built or the battles he fought, but in the warmth, protection, and unwavering love he bestowed upon those he held dear.

In remembering Pete, we hold tightly to the enduring image of a man wrapped in his heated blanket, flanked by Jake and Tia, embodying the quiet strength and fierce devotion that was his trademark—a life richly lived, and a love deeply felt.

Gentry-Newell & Vaughan is serving the Belmonte family. Online memorials may be made at www.gnvfuneralhome.com