Anthony J. "Tony" Nini

Anthony J. Nini (Tony), 77, a long-time resident of the Princeton area, passed away peacefully at home, Friday, January 24, 2025, surrounded by members of his loving family. Born in Pettoranello di Molise, Italy, he immigrated to the United States in 1958. Tony graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1968. He lived the majority of his life in New Jersey, recently moving to Texas.
Tony had a long and dedicated career in the grocery industry where he spent most of his professional life. He later transitioned to work at Princeton University where he concluded his career, contributing to the Grounds and Maintenance Department for several years until his retirement. Tony's commitment to his work and his ability to connect with others left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Tony was an avid golfer, landscaper, traveler, and sports enthusiast, especially coaching and playing baseball. Above all, he was devoted to his wife Donna and to their blended family where he enjoyed spending time with them. They relished his extraordinary sense of humor and the antics he played on them.
Tony is predeceased by his parents Albino and Marianna (Antenucci) Nini, his brother Dante Nini, his sister and brother-in-law Polina and Joseph Ercolano, and his son-in-law Pablo Santiago. He is survived by his loving wife Donna Nini, his sisters Cesina (Joe) Mangone and Mickey (Sam) Procaccini, and his sister-in-law Judy (Dante) Nini. He was a loving father and PopPop to his blended family which includes Michelle Nini, Jennifer Santiago, John (Melissa) Nini, Brice (Sabrina) Gibbs, and Chris (Rudy) Rangel. Grandchildren include Stephanie (Ty) Wilmot, Kieran Gibbs, Dylan Welch, Jaxon Truebenbach, Annie and Mollie Rangel, Ava Santiago, and Anthony and Dominic Nini. He will also be missed by many nieces and nephews and other extended family members.
The visitation will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm at Mather Hodge Funeral Home – 40 Vandeventer Ave., Princeton, NJ. A prayer service at the funeral home and a burial at Princeton Cemetery will immediately follow the visitation.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.