Anthony Ishmael Bartholomew

Today, we gather in deep love and remembrance of Anthony Bartholomew - a son, a brother, a grandson, a teammate, a protector, and a bright light in all our lives. Though his time with us was far too short, his impact was immense and everlasting.
Born on August 4, 2005, in Brooklyn, New York, Anthony brought with him a free spirit and fearless heart. When he moved to Georgia at the age of 10, he didn't just adapt - he soared. From the very beginning, Anthony showed us that there were no limits to what he could do. He was adventurous, daring, and determined. He lived life boldly, unafraid to try and destined to master whatever he touched.
One Christmas, at just 10 years old, Anthony asked to be taught how to drive. His mother, Joleane, looked at him, a bit surprised, and asked if, he was sure. With confidence only Anthony could carry, he said, "I know what to do - I've been watching you." He proceeded to tell her what each letter on the gear shift stood for. That Christmas, Anthony drove for the first time and never needed driving school. That was Anthony. Try it once, and it becomes perfect.
But behind that boldness was also a thoughtful, disciplined young man. He once came to his mother and said, "I made a budget. Look it over for me." He wasn't just a dreamer - he was a planner, a builder, someone who saved for the things he loved and made smart choices for his future.
Anthony attended Salem High School, where he proudly played football for the Salem Seminoles. That jersey wasn't just a uniform, it was a symbol of pride, strength, and team spirit. On the field, he gave his all. Off the field, he carried himself with the same strength and loyalty. He was a Seminole in every sense of the word - disciplined, powerful, and full of heart.
He was the baby who never stopped drinking milk and juice like a newborn. But even as a baby, he had a grown man's presence. He called his mother by her first name - not out of disrespect, but because of his bold, "boss baby" personality. From a young age, Anthony carried himself like a man. He walked and talked like he had it all figured out, and honestly, most of the time - he did. That came from being raised in the fast pace of the city, where fairness, presence, and confidence were taught early.
In fact, it was instilled in him from early on: "If anything happens, call my mother, Joleane, or my father, Kevin Bartholomew." He knew who his anchors were - and he made sure others knew too.
Anthony shared a bond like no other with his grandmother. Their relationship was unshakable, inseparable, and rooted in love, laughter, and trust. She wasn't just his grandma-she was his confidant, his peace, and his person. That bond was a treasure in both of their lives. He lived for connection. Anthony loved getting on the game with his homeboys, diving into laughter and friendly competition. He also had a best friend, with whom Sunday game nights became sacred. Every other week, he'd come over ready to play, laugh, and make memories. Those nights were filled with joy pure, real, and alive with the kind of spirit only Anthony could bring.
He also had a love for motorcycles, a true reflection of his wild spirit, his hunger for freedom, and his need to feel the wind on his face, chasing the thrill of life. He lived on his terms, and that's what made him unforgettable.
Anthony wasn't just living for the moment - he had vision. He had ambition. He dreamed of being a successful entrepreneur, of building something of his own, of leaving a legacy that mattered. He talked about the future with a sharp mind and a determined heart. He was already becoming the man he aspired to be.
Anthony's versatility shined not just in sports, academics, and ambition, but in his joyful embrace of culture and fun. His sister Jameela made sure he stayed connected to their Trinidadian roots - teaching him how to whine. It wasn't long before Anthony was moving like Machel Montano himself, proudly and playfully showcasing the spirit of his heritage with rhythm and confidence.
Though we lost him on May 4, 2025, Anthony's spirit is far from gone. It lives in every story, every laugh, every lesson, and every moment we shared. It lives in his mother's heart, in his grandmother's embrace, in the eyes of his friends, and in the legacy of love and strength he left behind.
Anthony Bartholomew - your life was bold, your love was fierce, and your legacy is eternal.
Rest easy, beloved. You will forever be missed, forever honored, and forever loved.
He leaves to chrish his memory, his mother, Joleane Joseph; father, Kevin Bartholomew; grandmothers, Ulandra Medina and Judy Mckenzie; sisters, Jameela Bartholomew, Megan Atkins; brothers, Kevin Byrd, Amari Jones, Brandon Kincaid,
Michael Smith; uncles, Darell Joseph, Odel Joseph, Brent Saney, Kellon Bartholomew; aunties, Laurel Scantlebury, Karen Harris & Family; cousins,: Aaliyah Joseph, Samiyah Joseph, Soriah Joseph, Terell Scatlebury, Tremaine Scantlebury, Tyler Scantlebury, Tyler Saney, Tori Saney, Truley Saney; & best friend, Lesley Wiley.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Scot Ward's Green Meadow Chapel. The family will receive friends Friday, May 16, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the funeral home. Condolences may be submitted on-line at www.scotward.com. Scot Ward Funeral Services, 699 American Legion Rd., Conyers, GA, 770-483-7216.