Anthony James DeSantis Sr, 96, passed away April 3, a fitting and poetic departure on Good Friday, as he was pure goodness. His children and devoted wife of 70 years by his side as he left this world. Anthony (Tony) and Celeste’s love story started in 1955 and they have been the epitome of what a beautiful marriage looks like, inseparable and committed to each other all these years.

They brought three children into the world. Renee Amoroso (Michael), Tony DeSantis (Tediar), Mark DeSantis (Colleen). He loved their spouses like his own. From there came ten grandchildren, Daria, Evan, Brianna, Chelsea, Tony Max, Michael, Alana, Brian, Taylor and Ryan. In addition, eight great grandchildren: Logan, Kendall, Hudson, Tatum, Reade, Sebastian, Enzo, Bronson and another on the way, all who loved their Pop Pop with their whole heart. Tony has one surviving brother, Albert DeSantis (Barbara) and many nieces and nephews who adored him.

Tony served our country in the Korean War and traveled the world. Shortly after, he started his career as a bank teller at Central Jersey Bank in Long Branch, eventually becoming VP and assisting many well-known local businesses secure the loan they needed to start their business.

Tony was not only wise, kind, loving and compassionate He was a gentleman; truly a “gentle man”.  His family was everything to him and he was our world, each one of us felt his love, support, and quiet strength every single day.

He always loved the sun on his face and was known for his great tan. His garden was always immaculate, and he spent many hours nursing his flowers and plants, enjoying the simple life.  But most importantly, your life was enriched if he stepped into it on any level by his loving disposition.

Our family finds comfort knowing he is at peace after a life well lived, and now in the arms of his first granddaughter, Daria, his special girl!

Visitation Friday, April 10, 2:00-5:00 pm at the Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street, Long Branch.  Mass of Christian burial Saturday, April 11^th 10:30 am at Star of the Sea RC Church, 101 Chelsea Avenue, Long Branch.  Entombment to follow in Woodbine Mausoleum.