Anthony J. DeCilles Jr.

Anthony J. DeCilles Jr., 73, of Dexter, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025, at Samaritan Keep Nursing Home, where he had resided for the past two years. A kind and loving man, Tony was known for his warm heart, his infectious laughter, and his ability to truly listen—a rare and cherished gift that endeared him too so many.

Born on May 27, 1951, in Watertown, New York, Tony was the son of Anthony Sr. and Rosetta (Jock) DeCilles. He grew up in Dexter and graduated from General Brown High School before furthering his education at Jefferson Community College, Syracuse University, and ultimately earning his degree from SUNY Oswego.

Tony dedicated his career to helping others, working as an alcohol and drug counselor at Mercy Hospital and Samaritan Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation. He also spent time at Hutchins Mental Health, providing guidance and support to those in need. Earlier in life, he worked alongside his parents at Tony’s Service Center in Dexter, a place that held many fond memories for him.

While his professional work was meaningful, it was his role as an uncle that brought him the greatest joy. Tony had a special bond with his nieces and nephews, who adored listening to his stories, playing cards with him, and sharing in his love for life’s simple pleasures. He had a passion for collecting baseball cards, coins, and ceramic elephants, and he treasured the peace and beauty of the countryside, especially when it offered a good view of the lake.

Tony’s deep faith was an important part of his life. He was a communicant of St. Elizabeth Church in Dexter and later attended Immaculate Conception Church in Brownville.

He is survived by his seven siblings: Peter (Debra) DeCilles of Dexter, Mary Myers of Dexter, Thomas (Jean) DeCilles of Batesville, Indiana, David DeCilles of Massena, Brian (Tammy) DeCilles of Limerick, Kevin (Grace) DeCilles of Clayton, North Carolina, and Kathleen (Andrew) Skelly of Lawrenceville, Georgia. He was predeceased by his beloved parents.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, April 4,2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home, Dexter. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Brownville, New York. A spring burial will take place at Dexter Cemetery on May 9, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

Tony’s kindness, laughter, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Anthony’s memory to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 119 W. Main St. Brownville, New York 13615.

Online condolences can be shared at www.dexterfuneralhome.com.

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