Anthony DeMarco, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend, passed away on April 10, 2025, following a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and behavioral variant Frontotemporal Dementia (bvFTD), both linked to a genetic mutation in the TARDBP gene. Born on March 11, 1965 in New Jersey, Anthony later made Virginia Beach his true home, where he built a life filled with love, service, and compassion. Anthony dedicated his life to helping others as a pharmacist, where his warmth, integrity, and genuine concern for his patients made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him and he was deeply cherished by his coworkers and patients alike.
Anthony’s love for his family was at the center of his world. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jenifer, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, having first met in high school. He was the proud and loving father of four daughters: Gina DeMarco, Gabrielle de la Flor (Marcos), MaryBeth Leslie (Marious), and Margaret DeMarco. He found immense joy in his grandson, Noah de la Flor, who was one of the brightest lights in his life.
Anthony is also survived by his mother, Henrietta DeMarco, as well as his sister Catherine, nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who were touched by the joy he found in everyday moments, and his strength, humor, and grace in the face of illness. His loyal dogs, Quincy and Gracie, and his grand-pets— Molly, Ruthie, Thor, Charlie, Penny, and Theodore—were always by his side, bringing him comfort and companionship.
A man of many passions, Anthony found joy in the music of Billy Joel, the mysteries of Ancient Aliens, the excitement of Mecum Auto Auctions, and the peacefulness of working in his yard. He also loved cruising with his family.
Anthony’s wit and dedication to his loved ones will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched throughout his career and beyond.
A celebration of life for Anthony will be held Friday, April 25, 2025 at 4:00 PM at Smith & Williams Funeral Home/Kempsville, 4889 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Anthony’s memory to support ALS research and patient services. Contributions can be made to ALS Ride For Life, which raises funds for research and provides support to ALS patients and their families. Donations can be made online at https://alsrideforlife.org/support-us/make-a-donation/ or by mailing a check payable to ALS Ride For Life to:
ALS Ride For Life
Stony Brook University, HSC, Level 2, Room 106
Stony Brook, NY 11794-8231
The family extends heartfelt thanks to ALS Ride for Life, the Hampton Roads ALS Association, and the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration for their unwavering support. They are also deeply grateful to the health professionals with Sentara Home Care Services and Interim HealthCare for their compassionate care.
