Anthony Diaz
Obituary Reports the death of an individual, providing an account of the person’s life including their achievements, any controversies in which they were involved, and reminiscences by people who knew them.
Anthony “Tony” J. Diaz, beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, died Oct. 13 at the New York State Veterans Home at Montrose. He was 75.
He was born to Alice Griffin and Emmanuel Diaz on June 28, 1947, in Peekskill. He graduated from Peekskill High School and served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. After serving, Tony became a dedicated registered nurse. He was very passionate about his work at the VA Hospital in Montrose for several decades. He received many professional accolades and retired with distinction.
Tony’s proudest moments were as a father and grandfather. He was an exceptional father to his son, Jawara, and daughter India. He married his love, Angela Jennings (India’s mother), and they remained a family even after divorce. He endlessly bragged about India’s children, Carter and Briella, and Jawara’s children, Jordan, Tyler, Jayda, Lily, Kensley, Jaliya and Brooklyn.
An avid New York sports fan, he loved his Knicks, Giants and Yankees. He made it a tradition to attend at least one Yankee game a season with his daughter, a tradition he maintained even while battling his illness. He was an avid listener of jazz music, attending jazz festivals and concerts often. He also spent his free time fishing, tending to his family or enjoying his favorite spot – the Peekskill Riverfront.
Tony maintained his cool demeanor and wits even through his illness. He was the man everyone knew and everyone considered his friend. He had a strong rapport with everyone from the nursing staff, security and kitchen staff that cared for him. Each shared a funny story and warm memory of him and everyone agreed that he was a fighter.
Tony is survived by his daughter, India Diaz (Christopher Battle); friend Angela Jennings; brother Ricardo Diaz; sister Regina Eversley-Crane; his grandchildren; several cousins; and nieces and nephews. Tony was preceded in death by his son, Jawara, his parents and sister and brother-in-law Margaret and Danny.
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