Anthony (Tony) James Amodeo, Sr., 81, of Milton, Florida, passed away October 17, 2014. Tony was born September 2, 1933, in Century, Florida, to Julia and Michael A. Amodeo.
After graduation from Pensacola High School, he enlisted in the United States Army. During his service he was stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Keflavik, Iceland, and ended his military career at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was one of the original members of the 10th Special Forces Group, tank commander with the 44th Tank Battalion, Jump Master with the 82nd Airborne, Certified Mountain Goat Search and Rescue Instructor. He served as high cover security for one of the first United States space missions. After his Honorable Discharge from the United States Army, he became an entrepreneur and business owner in Columbus, Georgia. He retired from the State of Alabama Property Appraiser’s office in 1997.
He was preceded in death by his father Michael A. Amodeo, and his mother Julia B. Amodeo, of Pensacola, Florida.
He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Essie Amodeo; his children, Mona A. Amodeo (Ken Ellzey, Sr.), Lisa Amodeo Cowart, Anthony James Amodeo, Jr., Janie_Walls_and Mitchell Moye (Cindy). Grandchildren: Lindsey Braxton Shook (Matt), Christen Williams (Quincy), Brian Cowart, Dustin Amodeo, Brittany Goodreau, Tony Thomas (Danielle), Bridgette Nelson (Ringo), James Moye, and McKenzie Smith. Great-Grandchildren: Kaylee Goldston, Mya_Williams, Layla Williams, Parker Thomas and his four-legged best friends, Little Bit and Chico, along with two-legged, feathered entertainer CeCe.
His life will be celebrated October 21, 2014, at Lewis Funeral Home Chapel, Frederick Barrow officiating. Visitation for friends will be held beginning at noon, followed by the service at 1:00. Graveside services with Military Honors will be conducted at Barrancas National Cemetery, NAS Pensacola, October 22, at 11:45. Friends are welcome to join the family for the service. Pallbearers will be: Dustin Amodeo, Brian Cowart, Tony Thomas, James Moye, Matt Shook, and Mike Kumar. His granddaughters will serve as honorary pallbearers: Lindsey Braxton Shook, Christen Williams, Brittany Goodreau, Bridgette Nelson, and McKenzie Smith.
He spent his retirement enjoying his home, family and neighborhood friends, taking cruises with “Miss” Essie, sunsets over Escambia Bay, arguing politics with anyone who would listen and creating a customized trading program for day traders.
Tony’s intellect, optimism, sense of humor and good-hearted nature will live in our memories. He had the will of a warrior, which remained strong until his final breath. The family wishes to thank Dr. Inclan, Dr. Ahmed and the nurses and staff at the Woodlands for giving us a little more time with him.
The family requests in lieu of flowers, please donate to the Pensacola Humane Society.
“ I’ve lived a life that’s full. I’ve traveled each and every highway; and, more, much more than this, I did it my way.”
To share a memory or send a condolence gift, please visit the Official Obituary of Anthony Amodeo hosted by Lewis Funeral Home.