Anthony Joseph Messina Sr., 84, of St. Louis, Missouri, born February 28, 1941, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Anthony lived a vibrant life filled with passion, dedication, and deep connections to his family and friends. He was married to his devoted wife, Marie, for 39 wonderful years until her passing in 2002. Together, they cultivated a legacy of love, lively family gatherings, and treasured memories that will endure for generations.
A skilled machinist by trade, Anthony also poured his heart into the family business for many years, embodying a tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment to those he held dear. His hands were rarely still—whether tending to his thriving garden, casting a line into the water (fishing being one of his greatest joys), or basking in the outdoors he so adored. His love for nature shone through in the way he nurtured his plants and found peace under the open sky.
Above all, Anthony was a family man and a steadfast friend, always ready with a kind word, a helping hand, or a hearty laugh. Known for his warm and outgoing spirit, he had a gift for making friends wherever he went, striking up conversations with ease and leaving a lasting mark on everyone he met. His generosity and love touched countless lives.
He is survived by his daughters, Gina Weakley and Christine Hand, and their husbands, Nathan Weakley and Larry Hand; seven grandchildren—Skott, Nathan II, Samuel (wife Beth), Jonathan (wife Stephanie), and Rachel; eleven great-grandchildren—Nathan III (wife Emma), Nicholas, Maddie, Elijah, Caroline, Andrew, Blake, Annabelle, Bryce, and Maverick; and one great-great-grandchild, Elaine—all of whom will carry his memory forward with pride and love.
SERVICES: A celebration of Anthony’s life will be held at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL (10151 Gravois Rd., 63123) on Friday, March 21, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and he will be laid to rest with the love of his life, Marie, at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Missouri Conversation Heritage Foundation or to the American Lung Association.
His family finds comfort knowing he is reunited with his wife, Marie, perhaps casting a line into a peaceful lake, like they had done so many times before. Anthony will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the light he brought to the world.
I send my deepest sympathies to your family. Tony was the sweetest man. I will Always remember him.