Antonio G Romero

Antonio (Tony) Romero, 85, passed away peacefully at his home in Chandler, Arizona, on July 30, 2026. He was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, on July 5, 1941, the only child of Atanasio and Aurora Romero. Tony graduated from Glendale High School and earned a BA degree from Arizona State University. He served in the U.S. Army-AZ National Guard from 1965 to 1971.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Melinda; his sons Sean(Brittany), Brian (Elizabeth) and Marc; and his beloved grandchildren, Adam, Brandon, Thomas, Charlotte, and Evvie. All dearly loved their “Abuelito.”

Tony had a successful career in management at Motorola and Syntex Ophthalmics before beginning a second career in education. He joined the Chandler Unified School District, first teaching ESL (English as a Second Language) at Galveston Elementary School and later becoming a classroom teacher at San Marcos Elementary School. He devoted 20 years to education, where his dedication to his students and genuine care for others made this second career especially meaningful. Tony retired in 2002, having positively influenced the lives of many students and leaving a lasting impression on those he encountered.

He met weekly with his breakfast buddies, his lunch pals, and his Saturday group. He enjoyed walking at Veteran’s Oasis Park and in the neighborhood, always making friends along the way. One of his favorite places to visit was the family cabin in Payson, Arizona where he hiked, visited with people, fished with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed life along the East Verde River.

His love for nature will remain a cherished part of our memories, as will the many ‘teachable moments’ he created as we gazed at the night sky, increased our knowledge of wildlife, and shared stories together. The many songs he sang for his family, students, and friends will forever bring warmth to our hearts—from Spanish love songs sung to Melinda to De Colores shared with everyone.

We will treasure the precious moments we shared with our beloved Abuelito.

Tony found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He will be remembered as a thoughtful, positive, kind, and generous man who cared deeply for others. His honesty, affection, and wonderful sense of humor were qualities that made him so special. Most of all, Tony will be remembered by the family he adored, the friends he valued and the many lives he touched.

May his memory be a blessing, a source of comfort and inspiration for generations to come.

Graveside services will be held at the Garden of Gon Ohav Shalom- Green Acres Memorial Gardens. A Celebration of Life will take place in November.

Donations in his remembrance may be made to Hospice of the Valley.