Anthony Salvaggio

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 18 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. with a 6:00 p.m. rosary service at St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Anthony was born October 24, 1926 to the late Annie (Todaro) Salvaggio and the late Gathan A. “Tommy” Salvaggio of Brazos County, Texas.

Anthony married the love of his life, Lena Bush, on June 19, 1949, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Bryan, Texas. He is survived by Lena, his wife of 66 years, his children, Gathan “Butch” Salvaggio and wife Geneva of Bryan, daughter Anna Philipello and husband Nick of Bryan, and Mitt Salvaggio and wife Rachel of Austin. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Nick Philipello III (Jill) of Bryan, JoAnna (Chris) Schrock of Destrahan, Louisiana, John Philipello of Corpus Christi, Nathan Philipello (Shari) of Franklin, Nikolyn Williams (Ty) of Oakmulgee, Oklahoma, Nina Montelongo (Robby) of College Station, Matt Salvaggio of Bryan, and Jamie Harvill of Bryan. Anthony is also survived by nine great-grandchildren, one cousin Sarah Ferrara, a sister-in-law, Sue Bush Malazzo, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Anthony proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, while stationed in San Diego, California. He retired from cotton farming at the young age of 80.

Anthony enjoyed many things in life, including working in his garden, helping Lena in the kitchen, and attending activities of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved going to Aggie sporting events, often taking his children and grandchildren along. The kitchen was truly the heart of their home as they always had an extra place at the table set for drop-in guests. His faith guided his life every day. Maintaining Sicilian catholic culture was very important to Anthony and Lena -- together they hosted 25 St. Joseph Altars in their home throughout their married life. Above all, Anthony loved his family, his country, and his faith in Jesus Christ.

Anthony faced numerous health issues throughout his life. The family would like to thank the following doctors: Gordon Mitchell, Anup Amin, Garth Morgan, and Katy Moran. The family would like to express heartfelt thanks to Jenny Hernandez, his personal caregiver and the staff of the St. Joseph Manor, especially Karen, Victor, Camille, Jessica, Katrina, Lois, Natalie, Patricia, Patty, Richard, Roseanne, Samantha, Shelvia, Tane, Tony, Tyesha, Tracy, and Kesha. Additional thanks to the staff of Brazos Valley Hospice for the wonderful care they provided to Anthony.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Brazos Valley Hospice or St. Joseph Catholic Church.