We lost Tony unexpectedly on March 1, 2024. Though he was battling cancer, he was undeterred, optimistic and fully expected to recover his health. We may never know why, but God had other plans.
Tony was born on February 6, 1955, in Reidsville, North Carolina, to Donald and Dorothy Smothers. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his niece Elizabeth, his stepfather Cal and recently his big sister, Patsy Cucinella in September 2023. He was devastated by the loss of each beloved family member and always told wonderful stories about each of them—how dear they were to him and how they enhanced his life. He had a special bond with his big sister and was so glad they met up in Charleston a few years ago, eating (and drinking) so many delicious things while catching up with each other in person.
Tony is survived by his devoted partner, Chrissy, his nephew Padraic Cucinella, his niece Sarah McDaniel, her husband Dave and their sons Elliott and Joel. Tony was immensely proud of his nieces, nephew and great-nephews. He bragged on their accomplishments and routinely told funny and touching stories about their childhood. If you’re a friend reading this, chances are he had cherished stories about you that made everyone smile, too.
Tony was one of a kind and the kindest person you ever met. He conducted both personal and business dealings with integrity, authenticity and good faith. A “Renaissance Man” by nature, his hobbies and interests were varied: architecture, astronomy, shooting pool, playing both golf and disc golf, telling corny jokes, photography, skiing, SCUBA diving, self-improvement, movies and matters of the soul. He was an accomplished drummer with a huge love for live music and an appreciation for talented artists of any stripe.
“Death ends a life, not a relationship. All the love you created is still there. All the memories are still there. You live on—in the hearts of everyone you have touched and nurtured while you were here.” – Morrie Schwartz
Tony’s Celebration of Life will be on June 6, at Fairbanks Florist in Orlando at 6:00 p.m. There is nothing Tony enjoyed more than calling together people he loved and watching them connect with each other. That’s why this will be a gathering he’d have loved…a true celebration! There will be appetizers, beer and wine.
Because so many generous friends have asked how they can help, we have set up a fundraising account to help cover the costs of final expenses and the Celebration of Life. Any receipts above expenses will be donated to a vetted veterans’ organization, as Tony was a staunch patriot and truly grateful for all who selflessly serve our country.