Antonio "Tony" Rios

Antonio "Tony" Rios was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships, earning the respect of all who knew him.

He was the son of Octaviano Rios and Maria Concepcion Rios. Tony grew up in National City, California and raised with four siblings. He had two brothers, Robert and Jose, and two sisters, Angie and Connie. Tony was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced many life experiences over the years.

A typical teenager, Tony had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood.

Tony enjoyed his college years, which may have been a challenge with all of the academics, responsibilities, and the sudden freedom that accompanied them, but Tony was able to manage the balancing act. He earned his Associate's Degree from Southwestern College in 1977 and went on to attend San Diego State University.

On October 19, 1985, Tony married Deborah (Debbie) Lynn Jones in Las Vegas, Nevada and would be married for the 25 years. Empathic and loyal, Tony was committed to making his new family happy. Tony and Debbie were blessed with two sons, Keith and Kevin. Tony worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Another blessing for Tony was the gift of five grandchildren, Cal, Charlie, Luke, Galilee and Dominick.

Fortunately, Tony enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Tony worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. Tony joined the San Diego Sheriff's Department on January 9, 1981 and after a 29 year career, he retired on October 30, 2010. Tony worked at the Central Detention Facility, South Bay Detention Facility, Imperial Beach Station. Alpine Station, Lemon Grove Station and Chula Vista Courts. On April 14, 2006, Tony was promoted to Sheriff's Sergeant and was assigned to Court Services Bureau, Chula Vista Courts.

Tony was a proud member of the San Diego Sheriff's Department. He was described as a dedicated employee and an excellent co-worker who always had a positive attitude. He was always calm and he cared about his co-workers and staff and treated them as family.

Tony passed away on December 16, 2010 at home in Chula Vista, California. He fought a brave battle against pancreatic cancer. He is survived by his wife, Debbie; his children, Keith and Kevin; and his grandchildren, Cal, Charlie, Luke, Galilee and Dominick. Services were held at Glen Abbey Mortuary Chapel in Bonita, California. Antonio was laid to rest in Glen Abbey Memorial Park in Bonita, California.

Simply stated, Tony was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Antonio leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Antonio "Tony" Rios.

Arrangements under the direction of Glen Abbey Mortuary, Bonita, CA.