Anthony Della Vecchia, 93, passed away on August 16, 2026, in Galloway Township with his family by his side following a life marked by devotion, generosity, and steadfast love.

He was born on June 7, 1933, in Egg Harbor City, where he spent his formative years and built the strong foundation of character that would guide him throughout his life. Anthony was the son of the late Arthur Della Vecchia and the late Matilda “Tillie” Della Vecchia, and he was also predeceased by his beloved wife, Babe Della Vecchia, formerly Delphine Dreager, as well as his sister Louise Tewell and his aunt Annie Kopf.

Anthony graduated from Egg Harbor City High School with the Class of 1952, where he distinguished himself as an exceptional student-athlete. He earned varsity letters all four years in football, baseball, and basketball, and in 1952 he was voted Outstanding Football Player of the Year. He was also voted “Best Dressed” in his senior year, a distinction that helped capture the attention of the young woman who would become the love of his life. Anthony and Babe were married for 65 years, and their marriage stood as a lasting example of loyalty, devotion, and deep affection.

Anthony served honorably in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955 stationed in Nelligen Germany. He befriended and became lifelong friends with the Hans Steidle family while stationed in Germany. That friendship remained strong throughout all the years after Anthony's service, especially around Christmas.

Anthony devoted 40 years of service to the Federal Government at NAFEC/FAA in Pomona, New Jersey. He was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and quiet professionalism. In addition to his government service, he was the owner of the Liberty Beer Garden in Egg Harbor City, a family business that remained in the family from August 1939 through 1989. Anthony took great pride in caring for his family and, with remarkable tenderness and consistency, looked after his mother Tillie and his aunt Annie Kopf every day for the rest of their lives.

A Catholic man, Anthony lived his faith through his actions and the way he treated others. He was kind, thoughtful, and selfless, and those qualities were evident in every part of his life. He was deeply committed to his community, loved living in Egg Harbor City, and was a member of several organizations, including Goodfellows, the American Legion Rudolph Elmer Post 158, the VFW, the Knights of Columbus Council No. 3500, and Kickapoo Tribe No. 237 of Egg Harbor City.

Anthony had a lifelong love of sports and a special gift for coaching young people. He served as an Atlantic County Youth Football League coach with the Egg Harbor Crusaders and coached basketball for many years at St. Nick’s Grammar School in Egg Harbor City.

He especially valued the friendship and loyal support of Father Neal Dante during the many successful years of CYO basketball at St. Nick’s. His greatest goal as a coach was to teach young people that sportsmanship comes first, and he took great joy in watching many of his former players grow into successful adults.

Anthony is survived by his son, Tony Della Vecchia and his wife Charlotte, his daughters Kathy Ford and her husband Ed, and Donna Romanelli. He also leaves behind seven adoring grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom will carry forward his memory with love and pride. Dad is also survived by his best friend and "Partner in Crime" Rich Senese.

Anthony will be remembered for his devotion to family, his dedication to his community, and the example he set through a lifetime of hard work, humility, and care for others. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and quiet generosity that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

And as Dad would say ...... “Don't let the door hit ya !”

Anthony's service was held at Saint Nicholas Church, 525 St Louis Avenue, Egg Harbor City NJ on Saturday August 22, 2026. Entombment followed at Egg Harbor City Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Tunnels to Towers Foundation, or to the charity of your choice