Mr. Anthony M. "Tony" Vagnozzi
November 15, 1939 ~ January 23, 2025
Born in:
Follansbee, WV
Resided in:
Weirton, WV
Anthony Michael “Tony” Vagnozzi, 85, of Weirton, a cherished father, brother, grandfather, great pap-pap, and life partner, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday January 23, 2025.
Tony was born in Follansbee, West Virginia, on November 15, 1939, one of four children born to Frank and Catherine Consalvo Vagnozzi.
He grew up in a strong Italian family, where he developed an early love for cooking under the careful guidance of his mother. This passion for the culinary arts would go on to shape a remarkable career.
After graduating from the first class of St. Anthony’s High School, Tony continued his education at West Virginia University, where he was involved in ROTC. Tony’s heart was always set on becoming an entrepreneur. He eventually made his mark in Washington, D.C., where he enjoyed a successful career as a restaurateur and chef. Tony’s talents were unmatched, and he served an impressive clientele of politicians, celebrities, jazz artists, and football stars, earning respect and admiration from all who experienced his cooking.
Tony’s warmth and love for life were infectious. He was a gifted storyteller, and his stories—often laced with humor and wisdom—will be remembered fondly by all who had the pleasure of hearing them. A man of impeccable style, Tony always presented himself with grace and sophistication, complete with his signature cologne that left a lasting impression wherever he went. His love for fine dining was matched only by his appreciation for the finer things in life, including jazz music. He often could be heard enjoying the smooth sounds of his favorite artists, and the song *My Way* by Frank Sinatra perfectly embodied the way he lived his life—on his own terms.
Tony was a true lover of tradition and family. He enjoyed quoting lines from “The Godfather”, especially the iconic, “Leave the gun, take the cannoli.” He was always the first to enjoy a good firework display and never missed an opportunity to marvel at their beauty.
At the dinner table, Tony’s passion for food shone through. He would always tell his guests, “Buon Appetito, Mangia,” before sharing a meal. His culinary creations, his hospitality, and his love for those around him will be remembered with deep affection.
In addition to his parents, sadly, Tony was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Josephine Berarducci Vagnozzi ; his second wife, Dorothy Rawls Vagnozzi, and his son, Frank William Vagnozzi.
Tony will be remembered with love and admiration by his daughter, Roxanne (Mark) Sonder; his life partner Shirley Washam; his sister, Esther Dotts, his brother, Joseph (Dreama) Vagnozzi; his sister, Luanne (Rick) Carroll his grandson, Brandon Craig (Dani) Battista; his great grandson, Niccolo Anthony “ Nico” Battista, his granddaughter, Jade Yelvington, his niece, nephews, great nephew, cousins and many friends who were touched by his generosity, humor and charm.
Tony’s family will gather privately to celebrate his life. The West Virginia University Human Gift Registry is grateful for Tony’s wish to donate his body to science.
Memorial contributions may be made in Tony’s name to Saint Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or to the Hancock County Humane Society.
Please share stories and memories at www.grecohertnick.com
Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Anthony M. "Tony" Vagnozzi 's name.
Hancock County Humane Foundation
241 Ohio River Blvd
New Cumberland,
WV
26047
Vags, family and Shirley: We are so deeply sorry for your loss. What a good-guy! He will be missed. Shirley, how blessed you were to have him in your life.
Roxanne
Thinking of you during this time. Remembering the good old days… my condolences to you and your family. Time helps heal.
Sandy Konnovitch