Anthony "Tony" Bethune

After a brief illness, Robert Anthony, "Tony", Bethune, age 63, passed away peacefully at Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo, MS on Saturday, February 21, 2026, surrounded by family.

Tony was born on July 21, 1962 at Warner Robins Air Force Base in GA, son of the late Doyle and Claris Bethune. After graduating South Pontotoc High School in 1980, Tony joined the United States Army, where he served in the Military Police Corp. His love for traveling abroad began during his time in the military. Following his honorable discharge from the United States Army, Tony pursued several different careers. His favorite of these was working abroad. It was during this time that he made lifelong friendships and memories that he deeply cherished. Prior to retirement, he worked for Homeland Security as a Security Guard for the Social Security Administration in Tupelo, MS.

He is survived by one son, Zack Bethune and wife Morgan; four grandchildren, Carley, Crew, Indie Blake, and Cotton; one brother, Jeff Bethune and wife Ginger; one sister, April Baker and husband Robert; his favorite nephew; nieces; cousins; and a host of family and friends that will sadly miss him.

In addition to his parents Tony was preceded in death by his grandparents, Helen Bethune, Inez Kilpatrick, and James Edward Henry; uncles, James Henry, Jo Henry, and Bo Henry; aunts, Consuelo Henry and Ople Henry, and his favorite aunt, Phyllis Kincade.

Tony loved to deer hunt, but his greatest love was his family and friends. He strived to bring joy and humor to others with his wit and charm. He definitely enjoyed life to the fullest, and inspired others around him to do the same. His distinctive, infectious laugh was his signature - bright, contagious, and capable of making a whole room smile. It remains one of the most beloved memories he leaves behind.

Visitation will be held on Thursday evening February 26 from 5-8 PM and again Friday afternoon from 12 PM until service time at Tutor Memorial Funeral Home in Pontotoc. The funeral service will be held Friday, February 27, 2026 at 2 PM at Tutor Memorial Funeral Home, with Bro. Greg Herndon officiating. Burial will follow in Eddington Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Donald Wayne Scott, Mike Watson, Craig Kincade, Josh Campbell, Zack McMillen, and Casey Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Wester, William Hayward, Jeff Vail, Larry Butler, and Gerald Hester.

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