

June 6, 1956 – August 7, 2026
Antonio “Tony” Antonelli Jr., of Providence, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Tony was the beloved husband of the late Marisa Falcone Antonelli, affectionately known as “Missy,” and was widowed following her passing. He was the son of the late Antonio Antonelli and Virginia Ordway.
Tony leaves behind his two devoted daughters, Ashley Andrade and her husband, Brian Andrade, and Briana Antonelli, who were proud to call him Dad.
Tony dedicated 32 years of service to the State of Rhode Island, retiring as a cook after working at College Park and Eleanor Slater Hospital. He was known for his laid-back attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to bring his own personality and humor wherever he went.
A true fighter through and through, Tony faced every challenge with strength, determination, and grit. There was never a battle he wouldn’t fight hard to win. Tough, street-smart, and unapologetically himself, Tony was known as one of the toughest guys to come from Manton Avenue, the Junction, and Federal Hill.
And, of course, Tony was a real Italian Stallion—a character all his own, with the confidence, attitude, and unmistakable quiet personality to match. He carried himself with pride and never tried to be anyone other than himself.
Tony loved fast cars, tattoos, rock music, lottery and Keno games, cooking, and animals. He was known for his sarcastic jokes, quick wit, and his ability to say exactly what was on his mind.
To his family, he was their original “Tony Soprano”—tough around the edges, fierce, and protective of the people he loved, unforgettable, and impossible to replace.
In addition to his daughters, Tony is survived by his sister Antonetta Copotosto and her husband, Luke, and their family; his step sister Winifred Korkuc and her family; as well as the family of his late sister, Tina Pelzman. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends.
Tony’s strength, humor, loyalty, stubborn determination, and unmistakable presence will live on through the many people who loved him. His was a life defined by resilience, toughness, family, loyalty, humor, and living entirely on his own terms.
He may have been rough around the edges, but beneath that tough exterior was a man who loved his family in his own way.There will never be another Tony.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. Robert Bellarmine Church, 1804 Atwood Avenue, Johnston, Rhode Island.
In lieu of gifts and flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to your nearest animal shelter, in Tony’s memory.
Rest easy, Tony. The Italian Stallion has left the building.
You fought your battles. You lived life your way. And you will never be forgotten.
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