Anthony (Tony) Thomas Pacchia, 95, of Bayville, NJ, Berkeley Township, died peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, May 21. Tony was born August 13, 1930, in the West Wardsection of Newark, NJ and was the son of immigrant parents, Frank and Filomena. He lived in Washington Township, Bergen County before moving and retiring to Bayville 29 years ago with his beloved wife Gloria.

He was predeceased by his sister Mary, his brother-in-law Victor Catalano, and his wife Gloria of 53 years. He is survived by four children, Anthony (Sandy), Diane (Ed), Frank (Jenn and her son Kyle), Elizabeth (Scott), six grandchildren, Lee (Anne), Thomas (Megan), Blair (Chris), Jesse (Erica), Evan (Heather) and Will (Julia), four great grandchildren, and many devoted nieces and nephews. 

Tony met his future wife Gloria at the Littleton Boys Club in Newark and later were married at St. James Church, Newark on August 29, 1954. His best man was Joseph Policastro, his brother-in-law, and best friend of over 70 years. Tony and Gloria devoted their life to each other and raised their family primarily in Clifton, NJ. Tony attended Seton Hall Prep and graduated from Seton Hall University in 1954. He served in the United States Army and was honorably discharged as a First Lieutenant in 1962.

Tony was a man of deep faith and a proud parishioner of St. Barnabas Catholic Church, Bayville who dearly loved his family and remained closely connected to them, regularly seeing and speaking with them. All conversations ended with him saying, “Stay strong, stay safe, and don’t stray from God.” He was often the first to celebrate life’s joyful moments while also providing thoughtful guidance and sound advice during difficult times. Tony was a passionate New York Yankees fan who always looked forward to watching their next game. 

A respected business executive within Brown-Forman for more than 30 years, he made a lasting impact through his mentorship and dedication to developing others. Tony fondly referred to them as his “pups”, and they referred to him as “chief”. He maintained meaningful relationships with many of them throughout his life. Tony lived a remarkable and impactful life, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.  

In honor of Tony and in celebration of his life there will be a funeral Mass at St. Barnabas Church, 33 Woodland Road, Bayville, NJ at 11 a.m., Wednesday, May 27. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Tony’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Tunnels to Tower Foundation.