Roland C. "Tony" Anthony, Jr.

Roland C. “Tony” Anthony, Jr., 74, of Niceville, FL lost his battle with cancer on Wednesday, February 27, 2019.   He was born in Willard, OH on January 4, 1945 to Roland and Goldie Anthony. Tony graduated from Willard high school and he went on to earn a Bachelors of Business Administration at University of Texas, and a Master’s of Science in Systems Management at University of Southern California. Tony served 30 years in the U.S. Air Force, starting his career as an enlisted Airman. He earned a commission after 14 years, and finished his 30-year military career in 1996. He retired as a Lt Colonel. Upon AF retirement, Tony and his wife Roxie settled in Bluewater Bay FL, but they both continued professionally in military support activities in Florida as well as in Washington DC. In 2012 they both retired from their careers and moved back to Bluewater Bay.

After retirement, Tony and Roxie traveled often to the far corners of the world, exploring and enjoying its many wonders.  He loved golfing, and boating, but he would tell you that hunting and fishing were the passions that brought him the most happiness.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Kaye Anderson, his first wife Peggy, and in 2017, by his beloved wife, Carrie Roxanne “Roxie” Anthony.  He is survived by his daughter Merrina Godwin (Jamie Godwin son in-law), son, Jason Miller, son, Roland Anthony, III, and grandchildren Sims Godwin, Seth Godwin. 

Tony had a wonderful circle of friends who supported him. The family wishes to express their profound gratitude to Clyde and Kat Pierce, Bob Wilson, Greg Terlecki, Quito McKenna, Doctor Mose Hayes and his staff, Tonya Hundley, Joyce Hankins, and all the staff at Brookdale, as well as the caring staff of Emerald Coast Hospice. They are particularly grateful for Gloria Price, who loved, laughed, cried, prayed, and held her dear friend through his battle. Tony said Gloria is an unforeseen “angel who blessed our lives with her humor, love, and endearing smiles”

Tony’s final resting place will be Arlington National Cemetery next to Roxie overlooking the Pentagon and the Air Force memorial, two national icons that they both served their lives and careers to support.

A celebration of Tony’s life will be held on Friday, March 15, 2019, from 1-3pm at the Bluewater Bay Golf Club. Interment: Columbarium, Arlington National Cemetery. Donations in Tony’s name can be made to American Lung Association www.lung.org, or AMVETS www.amvets.org

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