Anthony "Tony" Varner

Anthony "Tony" Varner, 78, of Salisbury, entered the arms of his Savior on Saturday, January 10, 2026, surrounded by love-held by his devoted wife, Sharon Kay "SK" Varner, and with his daughter, Tonya Leigh (Dillard), faithfully at his side. In his final days, they lovingly walked him home from this earthly life into the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, whom he served with unwavering passion for more than five decades.

Born on August 1, 1947, in Bassett, Virginia, Anthony was the son of the late Eldridge and Eva Barbour Varner. He grew up among a large and close-knit family, many of whom still reside in Bassett, a place that always held his heart.

At the age of 18, Anthony answered the most important call of his life-accepting Christ as his Savior. That decision became the defining compass of his life's journey. He pursued his calling through study at Cincinnati Bible College and Seminary (now Cincinnati Christian University), earning his Master of Divinity in 1970. From that moment forward, Anthony devoted his life fully to the Great Commission. As a Preacher, Teacher, and Evangelist, he faithfully served churches across Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia, and North Carolina leading countless souls to Christ and planting seeds of faith that will continue to bear fruit for generations.

Anthony's ministry began in Kentucky and expanded wherever the Lord led him. His preaching was bold yet compassionate, grounded in Scripture and fueled by a deep love for people. He lived the words he preached: "Go into all the world…"

Answering another call to serve, Anthony enlisted in the United States military as a chaplain, attaining the rank of Captain. His journey led him from the Army to the Air Force. Known for his adventurous spirit, Anthony delighted in flying with fighter jets, traveling extensively, and embracing every opportunity to experience the fullness of life. His commanding officer once famously asked, "What is our chaplain doing riding fighter jets?"-a question that perfectly captured Tony's fearless joy, love of adventure, and boundless enthusiasm. He was a proud Veteran who deeply loved his country.

On October 10, 1996, Anthony married the love of his life, Sharon Kay Varner. She affectionately called him "Hunky". Together, they ministered side by side, serving Christ with unity, joy, and purpose in every church they called home. Sharon was truly his Proverbs 31 woman, his partner, prayer warrior, and greatest earthly blessing.

Anthony cherished authentic relationships and found great joy in hosting and attending life groups. Whether gathered in his own home or traveling to others, he valued deep fellowship and genuine connection, forming lifelong bonds rooted in faith and love.

To many in Salisbury, Anthony was also known as "Tony" at Planet Fitness. There, just as everywhere else he went, he built relationships, built muscle-and most importantly, shared the Gospel. Winning souls was not simply something he did; it was who he was. He believed every conversation was a divine appointment and holy ground.

Above all, Anthony treasured his family. He was a devoted and loving father and an adoring grandfather, proudly known as "Daddy" and "Papa." He often said his greatest joy was simply being present in the lives of his children and grandchildren. His legacy of faith, love, service, and joy will live on through them.

Anthony was also loved by his faithful dog, Samson Thomas- his sweet, three-legged white pup-who was obedient and rarely far from his side.

In addition to his parents, Anthony was preceded in death by his brother, Clyde William Varner; his sister, Margaret Irene Whisman; and his son, Thomas "Tommy" Lee Leopard.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon Kay Varner; his children, Barton Anthony Varner (Amanda Ralph), Tonya Leigh Dillard (Micheal "Lamar"), and David Allen Joseph Leopard (Amanda Kathleen); his cherished grandchildren, Jason Stokley, Haley Michelle, Annsley Grace, Hannah Grace, Ella-Rose Laney, John Barrett, Skyler Elizabeth, Elijah Cole, Clay Hawkins, and Jonah Thomas Lee; his sisters, Emma "Ruth" Ashby (Bobby), Shirlene Vaughn, and Frances Marie Perdue (Lester), his brothers, Joe Eldridge Varner (Irma),and James Michael "Mike" Varner; (Donna); along with a host of nephews, great-nephews, and nieces whom he dearly loved.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on April 10, 2026, at Salisbury National Cemetery (501 Statesville Blvd, Salisbury, NC).

A Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 AM at Carolina Family Church (1925 S Main St, Building A, Salisbury, NC 28144).

A hometown service will also be held at 4:00 PM at Mt. Hermon Church of the Brethren(144 Mt Hermon Church Road, Bassett, Virginia 24055) with a family meal to follow.

Carolina Cremation is honored to serve the Varner family. Online condolences may be shared at www.carolinacremation.com.