Obituary published on Legacy.com by Newbaker Funeral Home - Blairstown on Aug. 27, 2025.
Anthony J. Schiavone, Sr., 104, of Denville, NJ, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on May 7, 1921, in Queens, NY, to the late Anthony and Theresa (Labrizzi) Schiavone, Anthony lived a long and remarkable life.
He proudly served his country in the United States Army during World War II from 1942 to 1945. After earning his degree in chemical engineering from Queens College, Anthony was drafted into the Army and initially sent to Virginia Tech for the "Manhattan Project." His orders later changed, and he was transferred to Fort Bragg, where he trained in chemical warfare. He was promoted to Sergeant during the war and received an honorable discharge at its conclusion. Anthony was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service. He was a dedicated soldier who took great pride in serving his country.
Following his military service, Anthony began his professional career with Allied Chemical in Morristown, NJ, where he worked until age 58. He later joined Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital in Morris Plains, where he remained until age 78. Never one to sit idle, Anthony continued working with Atlantic Environmental Co. in Dover, NJ, until the age of 92, when he retired to care for his beloved wife, Irma, until her passing in 2013.
Anthony was a gentle, selfless, and extraordinary man-always willing to help others and never asking for anything in return. Known for saying, "It's always darkest before the dawn," he inspired those around him with hope and positivity. A devoted father and grandfather, he was a guiding light to his family and all who knew him.
A proud member of the Morris Plains VFW and the Denville American Legion, Anthony enjoyed a full and active life. He loved sports, especially the New York Giants. He never missed a game and always cheered them on, win or lose. His loyalty to the team never wavered-even during the tough seasons, he stayed true, proudly wearing his Giants gear and believing in them every step of the way. He was an avid golfer throughout his life, cherished annual trips to the Jersey Shore with his children, and delighted in simple pleasures such as smoking his pipe and cigars, solving crossword puzzles, and keeping up with current events. He also had a lifelong love of learning, tinkering with computers, and practicing Tai Chi well into his later years-from age 62 until just before his 104th birthday.
Anthony is survived by his loving children, Anthony (Jill), Thomas (Missy), and Annie Burkley; his cherished grandchildren, Rachel (Chris), Matthew (Sarah), Elicia (the late Michael), Tyler (Samantha), Michael, Robert, and Tori; and his treasured great-granddaughter, Sophia. He will also be missed by his faithful cat, Tigger, his dog, Ellie, and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Irma, and his brothers, Joseph and John.
Anthony's extraordinary life, filled with dedication, love, and resilience, leaves behind an enduring legacy for all who were blessed to know him.
Family and friends may gather for a visitation on September 3, 2025, from 9-10AM with a mass following at 10AM at St. Mary's RC Church, Denville, NJ. (both the visitation and mass will be held at St. Mary's RC Church). Interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery,
East Hanover, NJ.
In lieu of flowers the family kindly requests donation be made to the American Legion Post 390, 9 Legion Place, Denville, NJ 07834.