Anthony Joseph Marino Sr.

Anthony J. Marino, Sr. 92, of Birmingham, AL passed away January 31, 2023, peacefully at home surrounded by his family. He was born on December 15, 1930, to Joe and Angelina (Tortorici) Marino. He grew up in his parents’ neighborhood grocery store having fun with cousins and neighborhood friends. Anthony’s first life changing moment came when he was nine years old. After watching the movie “Strike Up the Band“, he knew he wanted to be a musician and he began clarinet lessons. After learning to play clarinet he learned the saxophone. He attended St. Paul’s Catholic Elementary School and Ramsey High School. His musical abilities were noticed, and he earned the position of “First Chair” in the marching band at Ramsey High School. After high school he served in the Army during the Korean conflict. Yet again, his musicianship was on display, and he joined the Army band. He again attained “First Chair” status in the band, which designates the best musician in his instrument group. And during his early music career, “First Chair” was a position he would hold in several bands. After the service, Anthony attended Howard College, which is Samford University today.

However, in 1957, Anthony experienced more life changing events; he married the love of his life, Annie Carbonie, and he formed “Tony Marino and the Chekmates”, his own band. The love he shared with Annie grew strong and endured for 65 years with three children and seven grandchildren. A talented musician and singer, Anthony’s distinctive sound and stylings propelled the Chekmates to tremendous success, which he grew and sustained for 53 years, making the Chekmates popular throughout the state and always in demand.

A man of high character and morals, his integrity and honesty were exhibited in his work and relationships. Anthony spent 40 years as Assistant Trustee at Debtor’s Court, and he proved to be compassionate and caring to those in court. He was kind to everyone and freely gave his time, talent, and treasure to his church and others in need.

Anthony possessed a strong Catholic faith and was a daily communicant and a believer in the power of prayer. A lifelong member of the Cathedral of St. Paul, Anthony served in the house of his Lord as an usher for nearly 75 years. He was a Knight in the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre and attained the highest rank in this ancient Order of the Catholic Church. He was a great example to his children and grandchildren on how to be a good, Christian husband and father. He was blessed with a wonderful marriage to Annie and their love and devotion to each other was inspiring. He was a devoted father and grandfather. He loved laughter, good cars, Alabama football, cowboy movies and shows, a good hotdog, music, and mainly performing with his band.

He is survived by his loving wife, Annie, children Joe (Sharon) Marino, Anthony Marino, Jr., Laura (Charles) Vizzina; grandchildren Lauren, Joey, Anthony Marino, Amy, Benjamin (Megan) Marino, and Charles and Natalie Vizzina; sisters in law Marie Romano and Frances Naro, as well as beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Visitation and Mass of Christian burial will be at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Birmingham, AL Sunday, February 5, 2023. Visitation will be from 1:30 to 2:30 pm. A rosary will be said at 2:30 pm followed by Mass at 3:00 pm. Permission has been given that this Mass will fulfill one’s Sunday obligation.

The body will remain in the church Sunday night. Monday, February 6, 2023, all may gather at The Cathedral of St. Paul at 10:30 am to process to Elmwood Cemetery for an 11:15 am gravesite ceremony. All are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dominican Monastery of St. Jude in Marbury, AL. P. O. Box 170, 143 County Road 20 East, Marbury, AL 36051.