Anthony Bellusci

Anthony J. Bellusci, Sr., of Dunedin, Florida, passed away on January 21, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on April 17, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois, he was the cherished son of John and Antoinette Bellusci. Having received forgiveness of his sins by trusting in Jesus Christ as his Savior, Anthony departed this life to be present with his Lord, surrounded by his loving family.

Anthony enjoyed a lifelong passion for music which began at the tender age of five. Growing up in a farmhouse in Momence, Illinois, he learned to play the accordion, and this led to a successful career in songwriting, singing and publishing

A 1954 graduate of Momence High School, he briefly studied at the Art Institute of Chicago's Goodman Theatre - the oldest and largest non-profit theater in Chicago. In 1958, while performing his original song "Robbin' the Cradle," at Chicago's Fritzel's Restaurant, a personal favorite of local and visiting celebrities and dignitaries, he was discovered by a music executive. Recording under the name Tony Bellus, the song became a huge sensation, spending 26 weeks on Billboard's Top 100 Hit Record Chart. But his career was temporarily halted when he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1960. Upon his return home, he went to work at his father's upholstery business in Bradley, Illinois. Tony demonstrated his unwavering commitment to those he loved.

Throughout his life, Tony was always compelled to return to music. He performed in Las Vegas and Reno, and appeared on the hit TV show, American Bandstand. He was also a regular guest on the popular Cincinnati, Ohio TV show, Jamboree

Beyond his love of entertainment, Tony was a philanthropist, using his gifts to make a difference. He co-founded the Little Dreams Foundation with friends and family to raise funds for children's hospitals and schools around Chicagoland. Partnering with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Tony played his accordion during marathon events to secure pledges for the hospital. His dedication earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records playing over 50 hours straight-a feat documented in the books 1975 and 1977 editions.

In later years, Tony relocated to Florida, where he continued to share his music with locals and vacationers at various beachside hotels and restaurants along the Gulf Coast. In 2018, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Kankakee Area Music Awards for his profound influence on the region's music scene. During this event, he performed "Robbin' the Cradle" alongside his son Tino, continuing his legacy of inspiring others through music and song.

Tony's faith was central to his life and work. In addition to publishing Christian-based music that reflected his deep devotion to Christ, he formed meaningful friendships within his church community in Dunedin, Florida. He found joy in cooking, fishing, thrifting, attending local baseball games, and he always looked forward to visits from friends, children, and grandchildren.



Tony is survived by Tammy Bellusci, his devoted wife of 39 years; his children: Tino Bellusci (Sharon), Cathy Mitchell (Rich), Joe Bellusci (Charlotte), and Maria Verkler (Dave); six grandchildren: CarolAnn, Jacqulynn, Joseph II, Marisa, Alex, and Lucas; and five great-grandchildren: Elena, Eloise, Veronica, Joseph III, and Elizabeth.



A memorial service for Mr. Bellusci will be held on Saturday, March 15th at 11:00 AM, at Lakeside Community Chapel in Clearwater, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lakeside Community Chapel Benevolent Fund at 1893 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, FL 33765. Contributions will support the furtherance of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Anthony J. Bellusci Sr.'s legacy as a musician and man of faith will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. May his memory & music bring comfort to those who loved and admired him.