Anthony Marinatos

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Anthony “Tony” Marinatos, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, on October 16, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida, at the age of 79. Born on February 15, 1946, in Antiparos, Greece, Tony lived a life defined by love, loyalty, and generosity.

Tony’s greatest joy was his family. He lived for them — his devoted wife Anna, his sons John (Kristi) and Derek (Brittany), and his grandchildren John M., Lulu, Max, Jaxon, and Hudson, who were the light of his life. He never missed a chance to show his pride and support, whether cheering from the stands, celebrating their milestones, or simply being present with love and encouragement.

In high school, Tony learned English from his teacher and mentor Bob Sheppard, the legendary voice of the Yankees. Encouraged by Sheppard to join the debate team, Tony earned a scholarship to St. John’s University, which he often said changed the trajectory of his life.

Tony built an accomplished career, beginning at The Charter Company, later serving as Executive Vice President of Hamilton Mint, and ultimately as Managing Partner of Chartwell Capital, a private equity firm. He was an early investor and board member of Black Diamond Performance Reporting and one of the founding partners of 1010XL Sports Radio, where he continued to serve as Director of Management. A longtime member of the Meninak Club of Jacksonville, Tony valued the friendships and community service that came with being part of an organization dedicated to making a difference. A passionate fan of the Rangers, Yankees, Florida Gators, and Jacksonville Jaguars, Tony was known as an animated sideline referee critic and loved sharing his humor and passion as “Ranger Tony” on the airwaves.

He was deeply committed to the University of North Florida, serving as Vice Chair of the UNF Foundation Board and being honored as an Honorary Alumnus — a recognition that meant the world to him. His enthusiasm for UNF Athletics and belief in the university’s mission left a lasting impact on the Osprey community.

Tony was known for his generosity, warmth, and enormous heart. He treated everyone like family and would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. His kindness, laughter, and spirit will be forever remembered by all who knew him.

Tony was preceded in death by his brothers John and Alex, his mother Flora, and his father Thomas.

A closed-casket viewing will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at St. John The Divine Greek Orthodox Church, followed by a service at 10:30 a.m., officiated by Father Nick Louh. A reception will immediately follow in the church’s banquet hall, where family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Tony’s life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of North Florida, where a scholarship has been established in Tony’s name to support UNF student-athletes. Contributions can be made online at links.unf.edu/honoringtonymarinatos.

Tony gave so much of himself to the people he loved. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his love and laughter will live on forever in the hearts of his family and friends.