Saro Gullo was a Sicilian chef best known for his exceptional culinary skills and his deep-rooted love for family. His story gained widespread recognition through his wife, actress Tembi Locke, who chronicled their love, challenges, and personal journey in her memoir From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home. His legacy is not only one of love and resilience but also of the enduring cultural and familial bonds he cherished.
Who Was Saro Gullo?
Saro Gullo was born and raised in Sicily, Italy, where he was deeply immersed in the rich culinary traditions of the region. His love for food and cooking led him to pursue a career as a chef. Saro’s expertise in traditional Sicilian cuisine set him apart, and he became known for his ability to create dishes that embodied the warmth and history of his homeland.
Beyond his passion for food, Saro was a loving husband and father, dedicated to his family despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life.
Marriage To Tembi Locke
Saro Gullo met up with Tembi Locke while she was studying abroad in Italy. Their relationship blossomed, leading to marriage in 1995. However, their union was met with resistance from Saro’s family, who initially disapproved of their intercultural marriage. Despite this, Saro and Tembi built a strong and enduring bond, eventually winning over his family through love and persistence.
Their marriage was marked by their shared love for culture, food, and travel. They built a life together that embraced both Sicilian and African American traditions, blending their backgrounds into a rich, multicultural experience.
Saro Gullo’s Battle With Cancer
In the prime of his life, Saro was diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer affecting smooth muscle tissue. His battle with the disease lasted for ten years, during which he underwent various treatments while continuing to live his life with optimism and strength.
During this difficult period, Tembi stood by his side, offering unwavering support. His illness deeply impacted their lives but also strengthened their bond. Despite his health struggles, Saro remained dedicated to his passion for cooking and his love for his family.
Sadly, Saro Gullo passed away in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and cherished memories.
His Daughter & Family Life
Saro and Tembi Locke adopted a daughter, Zoela, who was at the center of their lives. As a father, Saro was nurturing, devoted, and deeply affectionate. He played an essential role in shaping his daughter’s life, passing down lessons about love, resilience, and cultural heritage.
After Saro’s passing, Tembi and Zoela found solace in their visits to Sicily, where they reconnected with Saro’s family and embraced the cultural traditions he had treasured. Through these experiences, they honored his memory and kept his spirit alive.
The Impact Of ‘From Scratch’ & Netflix Adaptation
Following Saro’s passing, Tembi Locke penned From Scratch, a heartfelt memoir detailing their love story, cultural struggles, and the journey through grief and healing. The book became a bestseller and resonated with readers worldwide.
The memoir’s success led to its adaptation into a Netflix limited series, From Scratch, starring Zoe Saldaña as Tembi Locke. The series brought Saro’s story to a broader audience, showcasing the depth of his love and the cultural richness of his heritage.
Conclusion
Saro Gullo’s life was one of love, passion, and resilience. From his culinary excellence to his deep devotion to his family, he left a lasting impact on those who knew him. Though he is no longer physically present, his memory continues to live on through his family, the legacy of his cooking, and the stories shared by those who loved him.
His daughter, Zoela, carries forward his spirit, ensuring that his love, values, and traditions are never forgotten. Through Tembi Locke’s memoir and the Netflix adaptation, the world continues to celebrate the extraordinary life of Saro Gullo.