Anton Michael “Tony” Zilich

Anton “Tony” Michael Zilich, 74, of Hattiesburg, MS, passed away peacefully on August 30th with loved ones by his side.

He was born on November 25th, 1951, in Washington, PA, to Anton Joseph and Margaret Korpus Zilich. He grew up with four brothers in Weirton, WV, and later attended West Virginia University. A civil engineer and career salesman, Anton worked for many years from Saudi Arabia to Chicago, then moving to Philadelphia and Connecticut. His long-time work in metallurgical sales provided for his family, but nothing brought him more pride than his three daughters.

Tony loved attending any event his girls were part of and had the pleasure of spending many hours in the swimming pool with his beloved granddaughter. He also loved walking the dogs, Emmett and Buddy. He loved the water, any type of boating, and relaxing with his family over cold IPAs. He built a life anchored in his family and his faith.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sharon Preston Zilich; his children, Emily (Chase) Thomas, K. Clare Zilich, and Leah Zilich (Brian Williams); and his granddaughter, Grace “Zilly” Thomas. As beloved “Poppy,” he was excitedly anticipating his first grandson, Baby Williams (due in December) and another granddaughter, Emma Thomas (due in November). He is also survived by his brothers, John Zilich, Mark (Tammie Zerkle) Zilich, and Robert Zilich.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Anton and Margaret; his brother, Joseph Zilich; and his sister-in-law, Beverly Zilich.

Tony, a man with a kind, sweet spirit, leaves behind a loving legacy of trusting God, helping others, serving his family, and demonstrating an unparalleled work ethic. His family will never watch a college football game, take a boat ride, sip a cold IPA, or hear a Bruce Springsteen song without thinking of “Poppy.” He leaves us with the reminder that God always has good plans for us (Jeremiah 29:11).

A service to celebrate his life will be held on September 12th at 2:00 p.m. at Grace Temple Ministries, 1131 Richburg Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39402.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (https://give.michaeljfox.org/campaign/831853/donate) or International Outreach Ministries (https://pushpay.com/g/internationaloutreach?src=hpp)

Share tributes with his family at www.grecohertnick.com