Born on February 2, 1935, Anthony R. Russo passed away peacefully on December 20, 2024. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Elvira Russo, and all 11 of his siblings. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Rosalie Russo. He was beloved by numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.

Anthony lived most of his life in the Bronx and worked at the New York Department of Sanitation for many years until he retired. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed trips to the casinos. He spent the last years of his life closer to family in Connecticut, and was inseparable from his brother, "Carmine," who predeceased him by only five weeks.

He was a kind, gentle, and generous man who opened the doors to his house on Newbold Avenue in the Bronx for siblings, nieces, and nephews in need of a place to stay, providing a warm, safe haven for any length of time with no questions asked, and no rent required.

Anthony enjoyed holiday meals with family, and he always left the loudest toys under the Christmas tree, to the excitement of his nieces and nephews and the dismay of their parents. He was our most authentic Santa. One year as he danced around in front of a babbling brook he shouted to his imaginary red nosed reindeer, "Rudolph, don't drink the water!"

He will be lovingly remembered for his laughter, uncomplicated approach to life, jokes that were occasionally hard to follow, and for his habit of sharing stories and reminiscing with younger family members as if they were there.

Anthony was a joy to us all and exceptionally easy to love. His presence will be missed by all who knew and loved him. He will always live on in our hearts and memories.

Anthony will be cremated and interred at Woodlawn Cemetery in a private service.

If you were touched by this generous and good-natured man, please feel free to make a donation in his honor to the charity of your choice.