Anthony R Cozier, (83), of Orange Park, Florida, passed away on March 8th, 2024. Tony was born on March 28, 1940, in Barbados, West Indies, to Doreen and James Cozier. At the age of ten, he moved to the United States and settled in East Orange, New Jersey, with his family, which included his sister Maureen King. After completing his studies at Rutgers University, he joined the U.S. Army and served his country for 24 years achieving the rank Lieutenant Colonel. One of his notable assignments was in 1971 when he was appointed assistant professor of military science at Clarkson College of Technology. It was during this time that he met his wife, Rose, whom he has been happily married to for 51 years. Together, they have three children - Mangea, Martin, and Malika. Tony furthered his education and obtained his Masters Degree in 1974. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his grandchildren who refer to him as Pop. Prior to retirement, he dedicated 10 years to teaching and mentoring young adults in the Duval School System. After retiring, he pursued a career as a Real Estate Broker and later found fulfillment in his work with prison ministry.
Tony's parents, Doreen and James Cozier, have passed away before him. However, Tony is survived by his beloved wife, Rose Cozier. He was also blessed with three children: Mangea (married to Barbara), Martin (married to BJ), and his daddy’s little girl, Malika (married to Rockie). Additionally, Tony was a proud grandfather to six wonderful grandchildren named Mila, Micah, Ilana, Jack, Maxwell, and Madison. Furthermore, he has a sister named Moureen King, and his nephews are Buddy King and Zev Weinberg, while his nieces are Zuta Gilchriest and Hannah Weinberg.
Tony's accomplishments are truly remarkable. Not only did he achieve the rank of 2nd degree black belt in Taekwondo, but he also traveled to various countries, with his most memorable journey likely being the Benny Hinn Miracle Crusade to Israel. Riding around town on a camel was just one of the many adventures he enjoyed. Despite his age, Tony never ceased to keep himself occupied. His daughter-in-law often teased that he was in better shape than the rest of the family. Tony's retirement was not spent on the golf course like many others, but rather in the gym, where he found solace. This choice eventually led him to develop a deep passion for running. He participated in a series of races, starting with the Gate River Run 15K in 2011, followed by the Donna Half Marathon, Captain Chuck Cornett Navy Run 10K, Biathlon, and several triathlons. His final race was for his 75th birthday in Clearmont in March 2015, where he finished 413th in 2:19:30 after completing a swim of 0.25 miles, a bike ride of 10 miles, and a 3.1-mile run.
In addition to his surplus of leisure time, he also devoted himself to cultivating a magnificent rose garden in the front of their residence as a tribute to his wife, who was named Rose. The commitment and effort he has invested in this garden, in an attempt to fashion something even remotely as exquisite as his beloved spouse, clearly demonstrate his unwavering devotion to her.
The family kindly requests that all floral arrangements be arranged for delivery at Holly Hill Funeral Home on the 21st, rather than being sent to the family residence beforehand.
The viewing services are scheduled for Thursday, March 21st, from 6pm to 8pm at Holly Hill Funeral Home located at 3601 Old Jennings Rd. Middleburg, FL 32068. All are welcome to attend and show their support for the family. If you wish to share a memory, this event provides the perfect opportunity to do so.
As a result of space constraints, we kindly request the presence of individuals who had interactions with Tony at the Celebration of Life that will take place at The Potter House International Ministry, 5119 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205 on March 22nd at 2pm. We will not be having a public Repass following the service.
