Anthony M. Recchia Jr.

Tony was born in Summit, New Jersey, to Anthony Recchia Sr., who immigrated from Foggia, Italy, and Marie Recchia, a first-generation Italian American whose family roots were in Calabria.

He graduated from Union High School, proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, and later attended the University of Miami and Upsala College.

Tony shared 68 years of marriage with his wife, Barbara (Matthewson) Recchia. Together, they made their home in Union, New Jersey, where they raised their five children in the house Tony’s father built in 1948. It remained the center of family life for decades—and, thanks to Tony, seemingly always had a renovation project underway. His philosophy was simple: “House finished, life over.”

Tony spent nearly 60 years with Napp-Grecco Contractors, working his way up to superintendent and overseeing many large transmission pipeline projects. He took great pride in his work, but what he valued most were the friendships and camaraderie he shared with the men he worked alongside over the years.

He was a firm believer in hard work and took great pride in providing for his family. But family itself was what mattered most to Tony. He loved having everyone close, especially when the house was full for holidays and family gatherings.

Tony also had a wonderful sense of humor and was known for his many “Anthony-isms,” including one of his classics: “I’m 100% right 43% of the time.”

A lifelong Yankees and Giants fan, Tony enjoyed his sports, his projects around the house, and most of all, the people around him. He built a life centered on family, hard work, laughter, and a home that was apparently never quite finished.

Tony is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; his five children, Michael Recchia, Joanne Genovese, Patricia DeSarno, Donald Recchia, and Anthony Recchia III; his five grandchildren, Melissa, Allison, Kimberly, Julian, and Ivan; and his sister, Augusta “Gussie” Foley.

He was predeceased by his parents, Anthony and Marie Recchia, and his sister, Lillian.

Funeral services have been entrusted to McCracken Funeral Home, 1500 Morris Avenue, Union, New Jersey.