It is with immeasurable heartache that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, son, and brother, Anthony “Tony” Vincent Anderson Sr.  He transitioned peacefully at 9:56 p.m. on Tuesday, September 9, surrounded by family and close friends in Atlanta, GA.

While we are devastated by this loss, we find comfort in knowing his suffering has ended and that he is now with the Lord.

Tony was born on December 3, 1965, in Knoxville, TN, to Henry Winston Anderson and Cynthia Marie Anderson. As the youngest of three by a wide margin, he was cherished and doted on by his parents and siblings.

He was a member of Roger’s Memorial Baptist Church, where he first met his future wife when they were both children.

Tony graduated from Austin-East High School, Class of 1983, and shortly after enlisted in the U.S. Navy.  Following his military service, he moved to Georgia, where he started a family and became a proud father to three children. Fatherhood was one of the greatest joys of his life, and he was intentional in raising, guiding, and loving his children.

Tony built a career as a skilled truck driver and found deep fulfillment in mentoring many loved ones in the trade including his bonus son which became a source of tremendous pride.

A lifelong Tennessee Volunteers fan, Tony’s love of football was contagious. Game days often paired with his other passions of cooking barbecue where he showcased his skills as a true grill master. Another of his joys was restoring his Volkswagen Beetle, which won several awards at VW shows. He especially loved cruising in it with his wife by his side.

Tony was a devoted husband to Jacquelyn “Jackie” Anderson and a loving father to Erica Knight (Matthew), Anthony “TJ” Anderson Jr., Paige Anderson (Ezechias), and his bonus son, Jymon Smith (Ashlyn). He was a proud grandfather to twelve grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Jackie; his sister Tawana “Wani” Lenoir (Gary); his brother Henry “Patchie” Anderson Jr. (Suzette); and his cousin Ron Middlebrook (Anna), who was raised alongside him and was as close as a brother. Also, he was adored by his close dear friends Rob & Sandra Mitchell, James & LeRain Pearson & Ken Wilson.

Tony is preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law, and his granddaughter, Wren Lesperance.