Anthony J. Basile

Anthony Joseph "Tony" Basile, a life-long resident of Hopewell, Va., passed away June 8, 2010.

He was born Oct. 21, 1923, to the late Pasquale and Maria Sebastiano Basile, Italian immigrants.

Tony was predeceased by his brother, Jeffrey Basile; sisters, Christine "Lena" Rose and Mary McCann.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mildred Bailey Basile; daughters and their spouses, Janet Beaudet, (Dick), Linda Harris, (Bill); grandchildren, Joe Beaudet (Debra), Tom Beaudet (Debbie), Mike Beaudet (Beth), Rick Beaudet (Mona), BJ Harris (Aja), Rebekah Harris/Simunek (Chris); Beaudet great-grandchildren, Kristine, Allison, Nick, Christopher, Alec, Karena, Austin, Matthew, Laura, Jessica and Katelyn; great-great-grandchild, Mackenzie; nephews, Gary Wayne Rose, John Basile; niece, Maria Grant; and numerous other family members and cherished friends.

He was a member of Our Lady of Fatima Traditional Catholic Church. He will be remembered for building the church's altar railing at the request of the late Father Terry Marks. He was a Fourth-degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Tony was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Pacific Theatre at Guadalcanal and Bouganville.

He was a member of Jacob J. Pearson, Post 637, Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Known as "Tony the Barber," he began his profession at age 10 in his father's barbershop which was one of the longest existing businesses in Hopewell and continued his career 71 years (1932-2003). He made home visits and hospital/nursing home visits on his day off giving free haircuts to sick and elderly clients.

Tony helped initiate Appomattox Cemetery Beautification Committee and served as chairman for many years.

As one of the initial members of the Hopewell Preservation Inc. He fought to preserve the Beacon Theater and Mallonee School. He was a life member of Historic Hopewell and a charter member of the Hopewell Twining Association.

The family will receive friends at the Nelsen Funeral Home, 214 N. 6th Ave., Hopewell, VA 23860, on Friday, June 11, 2010, beginning with a Rosary from 7 to 7:30 p.m., followed by visitation until 9. The funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 12, 2010, at Our Lady of Fatima Chapel, 5217 Futura Ave., Richmond, VA 23231, with Father Pieroni officiating. Interment will follow at Appomattox Cemetery on 21st Avenue, Hopewell, Va. Condolences may be registered at www.nelsencares.com.