Anthony "Tony" Joseph Buttimer

Anthony "Tony" Joseph Buttimer, age 92, passed away on September 11, 2026. He was born to the late Patrick J. “Toby” and Elizabeth Deegan Buttimer, on December 19, 1933, in Savannah, Georgia. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 55 1/2 years, Mary Louise, as well as a father of 10 children, grandfather of 33 and great-grandfather of 20.

He believed deeply that family was everything and often referred to their children as the best investment they ever made.

Tony and Mary were longtime devoted Parishioners of the Catholic Church of St. Ann where they were involved in giving their time and talents to various ministries throughout the years from St. Vincent de Paul, Meals on Wheels and Adopt a Family. They were also generous supporters of many outside charities.

Tony attended Benedictine Military School in Savannah, Ga achieving rank of ROTC Captain and quarterback on the football team. He then attended college and graduated from Catholic University in Washington D.C., where he achieved success on the boxing and wrestling teams earning medals in both. Upon graduating with a degree in Philosophy, Tony joined the United States Air Force as a commissioned 2nd Lieutenant where he earned his Pilot wings in San Angelos, TX. He served four years and spent most of his time as a B47 Pilot with the rank of Lieutenant. He was stationed in Guam and Midway Islands during his tenure along with bases in Harlingen and Abilene, Texas and Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Ga. He also served in the National Guard in Savannah, Ga. He was a member of Hibernian Society of Savannah since 1981.

Tony had a career in the insurance and financial services industry, giving many devoted years as a dedicated employee. He was an eternal optimist and genuinely enjoyed helping people work through difficult situations, always believing the best was yet to come.

He was an avid reader who enjoyed spy novels and political thrillers, though his interests extended to history and books of every kind.

He had a remarkable memory and a wealth of knowledge which allowed him to find common ground with almost anyone.

He was a gifted storyteller and enthusiastic joke teller, and his detailed and spirited delivery made each telling entertaining.

Tony loved sports of all kinds and was especially a devoted college football fan and a die-hard Notre Dame supporter.

Tony loved all things Savannah and all things Irish, and together, they held a special place in his heart. He visited Ireland multiple times with family.

Along with his parents, Tony is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Buttimer; siblings, Patrick J, John J, Jimmy, Thomas M, Richard J, Bridget (Betty), and Edward M. Buttimer.

He is survived by sister, Helen Marie Buttimer; children, Dennis (Angela), Mark (Laura), Tony (Beth), Nancy (Garry), Elizabeth (Jimmy), and Margaret (Gary), Julianne (Matt), Matthew, Maureen (Mark), and Mary (Mike); 33 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren and many extended family members and friends to cherish his legacy.

Tony leaves behind a legacy measured not in possessions but in his faith, family, friends and cherished memories.

Friends are cordially invited for a visitation between 4:00pm and 7:00pm on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at HM Patterson Canton Hill with a prayer service at 7:00pm. A Memorial Mass will be held at the Catholic Church of St. Ann on September 24, 2026, at 11:00am with a catered reception to follow. Tony will be laid to rest on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Georgia National Cemetery at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tony's name to St. Vincent de Paul and Cure HHT.