Anthony Ignatius Paredes

Anthony, also known as Big Tony, was born on May 28,1946 in Chicago, IL. Tony grew up in a loving home with two sisters whom he loved and protected. After graduating from High School, he enlisted in the Army to fight for his country in Vietnam. Upon returning home, Tony married the love of his life, Carol Marie Paredes on September 26, 1970. Tony and Carol had 5 wonderful children and in 1978 moved their family to Jacksonville FL. Tony continued his education and received his Bachelors of Art from Elmhurst University.

Tony owned and operated for 40 years a successful lawn company to support his family. Tony had a strong Catholic Faith and was always providing food to the local Churches for families in need. He enjoyed spending time with his family which included a weekly Thursday night family dinner, watching his favorite tv show “Gunsmoke”, and collecting rocks, fossils and antiques. Tony also loved to travel around learning about history.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Carol Paredes; his mother, Jean Marie Paredes; sisters, Bonnie Puralewski and Camellia Brinson. He is survived by his five children JamesPaul Paredes, Anthony D. Paredes, John Paredes (Kaylen), Peter Paredes (Rebekah), and StephanieJean Sterling (Boo Wayne). He was adored by many grandchildren which he loved to spoil to include Kennedy, John Marshall, Phoenix, Nolan, Annemarie, Savannah and Kamillajean.

A Catholic service will be held at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church on Friday, October 4th, 2024 at 11:00 AM. A visitation will be held at Hardage-Giddens Chapel Hills Funeral Home Thursday evening October 3rd, 2024 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM.