Obituary of Anthony E. D'Andrea

In Loving Memory of Anthony Edward D’Andrea

August 24, 1930 to June 5, 2023

Anthony Edward D’Andrea, known affectionately as Tony, was born on August 24, 1930, at Manhattan General Hospital to Giovanni and Emily D'Andrea. As the youngest of two children, his birth was regarded as an auspicious occasion, with his mother often recalling the church bells chiming in celebration.

Growing up in the vibrant Highbridge section of the Bronx in the shadows of Yankee Stadium, Anthony attended Sacred Heart Grammar School before embarking on a defining chapter of his life at Regis High School, an esteemed institution from which he received a scholarship. He continued his education at Manhattan College and later graduated from St. John's University in 1958. Anthony's professional journey led him to work at Children's Aid Society and Norda Essential Oil before finding his true calling in sales at R.W. Greeff & Co., Inc., where he thrived and eventually retired as Executive Vice President.

In 1960, Anthony married the love of his life, Patricia Halligan, and together they were blessed with eight children. They established their permanent residence in Larchmont, a place they called home throughout their lives.

Following Pats untimely passing in 1988, Anthony pursued further education at the Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, CT, earning a Master of Arts degree. He also dedicated himself to serving as an Oblate at the Abbey of Regina Laud’s in Bethlehem, CT, for thirty years.

Anthony cherished his life in Larchmont, which he fondly referred to as a resort community. He could often be found savoring a cappuccino at Bradley’s and La Parisienne, effortlessly connecting with people wherever he went. Whether it was at Saints John and Paul or the bench at Manor Park dedicated to his beloved wife Pat, Anthony had a remarkable gift for forging meaningful connections.

An ardent baseball enthusiast, Anthony expressed gratitude for being a Yankees fan often remarking, “I thank God for making me a Yankee fan”. He would regale others with the tale of how he managed to secure the signatures of the entire 1943 Yankees World Series team on his childhood baseball. This story was captured by Story Corps and often highlighted at the beginning of the baseball season on NPR. 

Apart from his life in Larchmont, Anthony considered Italy his second home. A transformative family trip to Rome in 1975 ignited his passion for visiting the Eternal City, which he lovingly referred to as “Home Plate.” Countless subsequent trips to Rome ensued, though Anthony humbly never disclosed the precise number. His deep devotion to his faith led him to embark on the ancient pilgrimage to the seven churches of Rome numerous times, carrying with him the prayers of those in need. Springtime and autumn journeys to Rome, complete with indulging in gelato and cappuccino, became an annual tradition for him. Remarkably, he continued traveling to Rome until the age of 86, inspiring his children to share in his love for Italy.

To truly know Anthony meant recognizing the paramount importance he placed on faith and family. A devout parishioner and daily communicant at Saints John and Paul, Anthony led by example, demonstrating unwavering integrity. As a relative of Padre Pio, he embraced the mission of spreading Padres message of Pray, Hope, and don’t worry, offering solace to countless individuals by always being ready to share Padre Pio’s relic.

Anthony will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his loving nature, his honesty, faithfulness, and his commitment to his adage, “Mean what you say and say what you mean”.  His family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched will carry his memory in their hearts, inspired by his exemplary character and the legacy he leaves behind.

He is survived by his eight children, Justine Pope (Kevin), John (Thulasi), Tom, Marcella Smith (Girard) Monica McInerney (Joe), Mary, Michael (Fe), and Joseph, and his 15 grandchildren, Patricia Pope, Michael Pope, Olivia Pope, Catherine Pope, Bridget Smith, Grace Smith, Patrick McInerney, Caroline McInerney, Anthony Gabriel D’Andrea, Dominic D’Andrea (deceased), Dillon Thomas Pio D’Andrea, John Paul D’Andrea, Seychelles D’Andrea, Therese D’Andrea, and Patricia D’Andrea, as well as his sister Barbara Cox (George).His family will receive friends on Friday, June 9th from 2:00-4:00 PM and 7:00-9:00 PM at the John J. Fox Funeral Home, 2080 Boston Post Road Larchmont, NY 10538. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for him on Saturday, June 10th at 10:00 AM at Saints John and Paul Church, 280 Weaver St, Larchmont, NY 10538. Burial will take place in the family plot at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Hawthorne, NY, following the funeral Mass.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Saints John and Paul Church in Larchmont, NY.