Anthony Jerome Townsend

1955 - 2023

Anthony Jerome Townsend, 67, of Columbia, passed away on Monday, May 8, 2023, at the Harry S Truman VA Hospital. Funeral Services will be held at 1 PM on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at Noon. Interment will take place at a later date at the Missouri State Veteran's Cemetery, Jacksonville, Missouri.
He was born on October 2, 1955 at Whiteman Air Force Base to Vernice and Maseo Townsend and completed his journey on May 8th, 2023. He lived his childhood in Sedalia, Missouri and was educated in the Sedalia Public School System. He attended the City College of Chicago and Lincoln University then later enlisted in the Army where he completed training to be an Advanced Medical Specialist. He was very proud of his accomplishments in the service and was honorably discharged from the military after 13 years of service.
He was an avid chess player and enjoyed playing with other chess lovers online. He also enjoyed playing with friends and remains the undisputed champ in every game he played with cousin Don.
Anthony never met a stranger. He was a smooth man with a calm demeanor and a loving heart. He was loved dearly by his family but everyone who knew him has fond memories of him. He was the ultimate girl dad and a grandfather who always rose to the occasion. He shared a strong bond with his favorite granddaughter, Aatiyah.
He is survived by his daughters Torie, Helene and Teneya Townsend (Charles Cooper); his mother, Vernice Jordan and step father Isaac Jordan; his grandchildren Aatiyah, Cairo, and Titus; his siblings Pamela Townsend, Nancy Black, Lela Jackson, Sharon Ross, Jim and Tamika Ross, Kathy Pryor, Sue Holmes and Donna Sherman; his significant other Kimberly Rogers; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, a host of aunt and uncles, and friends.
He is preceded in death by his father Maseo Townsend, his stepmother Laverne Townsend, his daughter Alicia Townsend, his brothers Maseo Townsend Jr, Earl Townsend and Leonard Townsend, his Sister Amy Jordan, his former spouse Lenora Townsend, his father-in-law James Ross, two aunts, and one uncle.
He had a special place in his heart for his dogs Jedidiah and Rosey. Rosey preceded him in death as well.
Special Thanks
The family would like to send a special thanks to Mark Ort who was Anthony's friend til the end. The love you showed by caring for him and advocating for him will always be remembered.
Thank you to the family and friends that have provided comfort, prayers, and food.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Townsend family.