Anthony Joseph Coccia

Beloved husband to Sheila (nee Brown) for 58 years. He is survived by four children: Chris (Jacqui), Beth (Kirk) Intermill, Becky (Chris) Messa, and Vincent (Andrea). Devoted “Grandpop” to 11 grandchildren: Emily, Zachary, Taylor, Meghan, Jillian, Bailey, Caitlyn, Maddie, Anderson, Rylan and Gus. Beloved brother to Phyllis (nee Coccia) Wells and her husband William; brother-in-law to Robert Brown and his wife, Molly. Tony was predeceased by his parents, Vincent J. Coccia and Amelia (nee Sterlicchi) Coccia; his brother, Augustine, and his wife, Barbara. Tony was born and raised in New Castle, Delaware and graduated from St Peter’s Catholic High School, Class of 1958. He earned a BA from Villanova University, then an MA from the University of Delaware and worked towards his Doctorate in Philosophy at the University of Virginia. Tony taught in the Philosophy Department at Villanova for several years. When curriculum changes were made, He then established his own construction company. His attention to detail and customer relations were integral pieces in the success of his business. In 1985, Tony was able to return to professor status - his true calling – as an adjunct at Villanova while continuing with the business, AJ Coccia Construction. It was not unusual to find Tony at a table surrounded by college students and plates of pasta discussing life’s most complex questions. In 1992, Tony moved to a new role as “Grandpop.” He took this role seriously and began the formation of 11 budding philosophers, “Question Everything” embedded in their minds forever. Tony’s ability to carry a room in conversation; to pull off a good prank among family members; to lead the grandchildren in jokes, songs, or play; to never encounter a stranger (we are pretty certain he befriended every medical professional) is what made Tony authentic and unforgettable to those around him. Even in his weakest moments, Tony had the uncanny ability to draw a crowd. His larger than life personality could fill a room and those he left behind will find it difficult to fill the void. Relatives and friends may call on Friday September 18, 2020 from 1-2PM at Alleva Funeral Home, Inc. 1724 East Lancaster Ave. Paoli, PA. A Memorial Service will begin at 2PM. Burial private by the request of the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Tony’s memory to the American Lung Association: https://action.lung.org/site/Donation2?df_id=31272&mfc_pref=T&31272.donation=form1&_ga=2.91107802.1596047384.1600532612-624445641.1600532612. Arrangements are with Alleva Funeral Home, Inc. Paoli, PA.