Anthony "Tony" Earl McCormick

Anthony Earl (Tony) McCormick, 61 of Hickory passed away on November 9, 2022 at home with family by his side. He fought a courageous battle with glioblastoma for 20 months. Always known as the “good guy” he had many friends that supported him during this time.

Tony was born on May 12, 1961, in Chicago, Illinois to Nancy and the late Harold McCormick. Tony had retired early from Chase Corporation due to his declining health after having worked there for 28 plus years, mostly as third shift supervisor. His coworkers were very important to him. The company was very supportive during his illness.

Tony graduated from South Caldwell High School in 1979. He served honorably in the United States Air Force for five years obtaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. He also played on the base softball team. During this time, he had the opportunity to travel to Europe, Spain, Turkey, Greece, and he spent his last year on the Aleutian Islands.

Tony was a life long Boston Red Sox and Tennessee Volunteers fan, having seen both teams play many times. Other hobbies included deer hunting, golfing, fishing, and helping coach his grandson’s recreation football, baseball, and basketball teams.

Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Amy Lackey McCormick; stepdaughter, Heather Cline; grandson and light of his life, Holden Starnes; mother, Nancy McCormick and companion Pete Medley; brothers, James (Ruem) McCormick, Aaron (Darlene) McCormick; sister, Brenda Goode and companion Michael Wehrle; Aunt Opal and Aunt Pearlie; mother-in-law, Shelba Lackey; brother-in-law, Tim (Sherrie) Lackey and a number of nieces and nephews. Furry friends, Noel and Gizzy who provided pet therapy.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harold McCormick; and father-in-law, Ray Lackey.

Special thanks to Carolina Caring, Duke University Cancer Center, Carolina Oncology, friends Steve and Mary Cutshall, Richard and Carol Furman, Brent Weekley for assistance with treatment, care, and support.

The funeral service will be held at 3pm on Saturday, November 12, 2022 at Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Vale, NC. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 until 2:30pm at the church. Rev. Allen Boliek will officiate the service. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658; or Ebenezer United Methodist Church, 8840 Cooksville Rd., Vale, NC 28168.