LELAND — Anthony “Tony” Joseph Melfi, 84, of Leland, NC, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, April 5, 2024.
The son of Mitchell and Margaret (Mero) Melfi, Tony was born in Providence, RI on April 21, 1939. He grew up in Cranston, RI where he spent the majority of his life before moving to the south. He served in the United States Army in a field artillery unit. Tony worked for many years in manufacturing, mostly for Corning Medical, before switching careers to the Recreational Vehicle industry.
Tony is survived by his soulmate Patty, wife of 43 years. His legacy lives on with his four children Leigh-Ann Barrett (Patrick), Kevin Melfi (Julie), Kim Baker (Scott), and Terry Byers (Brent). He was also loving “Papa” to 9 grandchildren – Ben, Nicole, Jacob, Tess, Colleen, Marley, Magnus, Brady, and Stella and 2 great-grandchildren – Dylan and Aubrey. He is predeceased by his sister Marie Mancuso, brother James “Jimi” Melfi, and daughter Kristin Fournier.
Tony was an avid camper. He and his family spent many adventure-filled summer vacations camping in the White Mountains of New Hampshire or spending long days at the beach. His most recent pastime was spending time with his grandkids, fishing and cheering them on in their sporting events.
Tony was very passionate about his New England sports teams. Our vivid memories are of him whooping it up whenever the Bruins scored a goal or the Red Sox scored a run. Two additional joys in Tony’s life were his precious dogs, Harley and Indie. They will forever miss being spoiled by him!
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial donations to Roseys Rescue.
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