Tony Lamar Straughter Sr.

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Program

Tony Lamar Straughter, Sr.
August 17, 1964 – August 19, 2025
"Ballee"

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, That whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16

Tony Lamar Straughter, Sr., the beloved son of Jamie Straughter and Betty Lou Straughter, was born on August 17, 1964, in Madison, Florida. Together with his four brothers and two sisters, he learned valuable life lessons and how to express his love for family. Most of all, he was taught to always have a personal relationship with God. Tony was educated in the Madison County Public School District and graduated in the Class of 1983. He was a lifelong resident of Madison, Florida.

Tony was admired for speaking truth to power, truth in love. He did not sugar coat things but said what was on his mind. He was also a caring person with a heart of gold. He often expressed his gratitude and appreciation for things done on his behalf.

God gives the strongest soldiers the toughest battles. After high school, Tony began his independence and employment career. However, because of his unforeseen circumstances, he was unable to accomplish the things he aspired to do. Rather than complaining needlessly, he chose to begin each day with enthusiastic faith. He accepted the fact that he would never be able to return to work. He then made the decision to give a helping hand, a willing heart, and to do something positive. As a result, he supported his working family members by babysitting their children for them while they were at their jobs.

Tony was also concerned about his neighbors' property while they were away at work. He volunteered to keep an eye on the area and appointed himself as the trusted "Neighborhood Watch" who had their backs.

Tony loved sports - basketball, football, baseball, and even NASCAR racing were some of his favorites. He was a Number 1 sports fan and the ultimate sports authority. He was especially proud of his son for being awarded the opportunity to play football (and to earn his bachelor's degree) at the University of South Carolina. To show his support, Tony made the sacrifice of taking the physically exhausting six-hour trip there and back to every home game during the four years his son was enrolled there. Tony always sat in the front row rooting for his son as well as the team to victory. To express his support for his (former) KC Royals nephew, Lorenzo Cain, he proudly offered encouragement and a little helpful advice from time to time. For these and many other reasons, Tony affectionately earned the nickname "Ballee."

Tony Lamar Straughter, Sr. was determined to do as much as he could, for all that he could, and in any way that he could. On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, two days after his 61st birthday, he completed his earthly tasks to earn his heavenly wings. He departed this life and transitioned to his eternal home. Tony is reaping the harvest God promised him, for he has been changed, freed, healed, and delivered.

Tony Lamar Straughter, Sr. left a lasting impression and his forever love for his family and friends. Those cherishing his memories with fondness and love are his devoted mother: Betty Lou Straughter of Madison, FL; beloved son: Tony Lamar Straughter, Jr. of Columbia, SC; brothers: Wilbur (Eva) Straughter of Jasper, FL, Billy Straughter, Jamie Straughter, Jr., and Willie Straughter all of Madison, FL; sisters: Lesley (James) Bryant and Patricia Cain of Madison, FL; adorable granddaughter: Analee Straughter of Columbia, SC; aunts: Ruby Pride, Mary Wesley, Deloris Thomas all of Madison, FL, Gloria Mitchell and Margie Mobley of Cherry Lake, FL; uncles: Henry Lee (Jewel) Straughter of Madison, FL, Timothy (Tomasina) Straughter of Rochester, NY, and Jim Straughter of Miami, FL; care givers: Tim and Mary Ann Sanders of Madison, FL; special friends: Jack and Angela Culpepper of Madison, FL; together with many other sorrowing relatives, consoling friends, and comforting neighbors.

Preceding Tony Lamar Straughter in death was his father: Jamie Straughter, Sr.

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