Anthony John Diaz

Anthony J. Diaz "Tony" - beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend - passed away on October 13, 2022. He transitioned peacefully and gracefully in the comfort and care of the NYS Veterans Home at Montrose.

Tony was born to Alice Griffin and Emmanuel Diaz on June 28, 1947 in Peekskill, NY. He graduated from Peekskill High School and served in the US Airforce during the Vietnam War. After serving, Tony became a dedicated registered nurse. He was very passionate about his work at the VA Hospital in Montrose, NY for several decades. He received many professional accolades and retired with distinction.

Tony's proudest moments were as a father and grandfather. He was an exceptional father to his son Jawara and daughter India. He married his love, Angela Jennings (India's mother), and they remained a family even after divorce. He endlessly bragged about India's children - Carter and Briella - and Jawara's children - Jordan, Tyler, Jayda, Lily, Kensley, Jaliya and Brooklyn.

An avid NY sports fan, Tony loved his Knicks, Giants and Yankees. He made it a tradition to attend at least one Yankee game a season with his daughter. A tradition he stuck to even while battling his illness. He was an avid listener of Jazz music, attending jazz festivals and concerts often. He also spent his free time fishing, tending to his family or enjoying his favorite spot - the Peekskill Riverfront.

Tony maintained his cool demeanor and wits even through his illness. He was the man everyone knew and everyone considered his friend. He had a strong rapport with everyone from the nursing staff, security and kitchen staff that cared for him. Each shared a funny story and warm memory of him and everyone agreed that he was a fighter.

Tony is survived by his daughter India Diaz (Christopher Battle), friend Angela Jennings, brother Ricardo Diaz, sister Regina Eversley-Crane, grandchildren, several cousins, nieces and nephews. Tony was preceded in death by his son Jawara, his parents, and sister and brother-in-law Margaret and Danny.

In his memory, donations can be made to the following GoFundMe fundraiser: https://gofund.me/0b6283f7. These funds will be donated to a select Peekskill High School student pursuing nursing.

Funeral services will be held at Hillside Cemetery in Cortlandt Manor, NY on October 20, 2022 at 11am.