Venuti family celebrates 80 years of service

Vince’s – now midtown laundry mat

By Guest Columnist Jacob Venuti

The Venuti family is marking a remarkable milestone in 2026: 80 years of service to the community, built on hard work, family legacy, and a commitment to helping others in times of need.

The Star Service Station 1946

The story begins in 1946, when Vincent Paul Venuti Sr. founded the town’s first towing service, originally known as Star Service Station. Italian immigrants, Vincent Sr. and his wife, Genell Ruth Green Venuti, built both a business and a life under one roof—literally. The family lived in a small apartment above the station, where they raised their three children: Vince Jr., Lenetta, and Joe.
What started as a modest service station quickly grew into something more specialized. The Venuti family discovered a natural skill in towing and vehicle recovery, particularly in responding to accidents. That early expertise would shape the business for generations to come.
The family later moved operations to Broad Street, renaming the business “Vince’s.” The location—now home to Midtown Laundry Mat—became a hub of activity, offering towing and recovery services, fuel, general automotive service, and even serving as a Greyhound bus station. The business remained there until the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Following the passing of his parents, Vince Venuti Jr., known throughout the community as “Big Vince,” took full ownership of the business and relocated it to Highway 82. For years, he led operations with the help of dedicated employees, continuing to build on the foundation his parents established.

Vincent Paul Venuti Jr. and his employees after the relocation to Hwy 82

After Big Vince’s passing in 2012, the next generation stepped forward. His son, Vincent Paul Venuti III—“Little Vince” to many—launched Venuti Towing & Recovery LLC, drawing on years of experience working alongside his father.
Today, the company stands as one of the Delta’s most respected light- and heavy-duty towing and recovery operations. From recovering vehicles involved in highway accidents to handling complex jobs—including aircraft recovery from Lake Monocnoc—the Venuti family has built a reputation for professionalism, safety, and reliability.
The tradition continues with a fourth generation. Vincent III began working in the business at age 17—the same age his son, Jacob Reed Venuti, joined him. Now a college student, Jacob works alongside his father during summers and breaks.
“It’s quality time with my dad,” Jacob said. “It’s also a full-circle moment. My dad worked with his dad, and now I get to do the same. I’m extremely proud of him and the hard work he’s put in to grow the business. I know my papaw Vince is smiling, watching his son achieve his dreams.”
Eighty years after its founding, the Venuti family business remains rooted in the same principles it began with: family, service, and showing up when it matters most.