Please welcome us in celebrating the life of Tony “Joe” Ferrari who passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025. The world was lucky to have his physical presence for 94 years.
Tony was born in Nitro, WV, to Victor and Sylvia Ferrari. Throughout his life, he served as the patriarch of a blended and extended family across many geographies and was forever at the center of a robust social scene. He will be remembered for his love of the outdoors and all things colored red, his energetic introductions, his stories of his upbringing and family, and for both his sternness and kindness.
His long career with Union Boiler took him all over the country. As a result, Tony owned many recreational vehicles throughout his life, so his home could move quickly on to the next job with his family in tow. This nomadic lifestyle also became a passion of sorts for his family, fervently discovering new people and places, always finding places for camping and fishing.
Throughout his life, he was an avid sportsman and outdoorsman and was “Mr. DIY” before it was a thing. During his time on Tybee Island, a typical day usually included time on the water, fixing any machine he could get in front of and detailing cars which turned into a side business. His love for hunting and fishing was shared with many of his family members — always teaching them the “right way” to honor a fallen deer and net a large-mouthed bass. Eventually, Tony’s love for angling brought him to Alabama where he was never far from the famous waters of Guntersville Lake. He had many joyous years of fishing before his dementia diagnosis.
Tony was a man of action. Despite the increasing memory and physical challenges brought on by dementia, his caregivers described him as “the leader of the wheelchair gang,” because he refused to stay put. He constantly scooted the hallways, checking in on his fellow residents and striking up conversations with everyone. If one followed the sound of booming laughter anywhere in the facility, one would find Tony surrounded by his grateful audience. Many hearts were touched by his boisterousness, infectious laugh, unwavering optimism and compassion.
Tony is survived by many family members and friends throughout the country who are grateful for the love, guidance, and joy he provided. He loved his family dearly — those near and far. Thank you to all of the extended friends and family that have helped him along the way.
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