Anthony J. Desiderio, veteran, retired correctional officer

Anthony J. Desiderio, 88, of Millsboro, formerly of Lester, Pa., passed away Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024, at his home.

Tony was born in Philadelphia, Pa., March 30, 1936, son of the late Vincenzo and Margaret (Depietro) Desiderio. He was proud to have served his country in the United States Army.  

Tony retired as a correctional officer with the Holmesburg Prison after nearly 40 years of service. He enjoyed working on cars and liked to try to fix anything that was broken. Tony enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, cooking, and creating his food creations, a talent he learned as a cook in the Army.  He also loved going to flea markets, fishing, and spending time with his family.  He was inseparable from his high school sweetheart, Joan.  He loved taking her for long rides and finding new places to eat. He was a kind and loving father who would do anything for his children.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Desiderio, in 2018; and five brothers, Al Desiderio, Salvatore Desiderio, Mario Desiderio, Dante Desiderio and Phil Desiderio. Tony is survived by his three children, Anthony Desiderio Jr. (Lisa) of Garnet Valley, Pa., Michele Desiderio (Mark Hecksher) of Millsboro, and John Desiderio (Heather) of Greenwood; five grandchildren, Anthony Desiderio III (Karissa), Christopher Desiderio (Katelyn), Nicholas Desiderio (Kim), Joshua Desiderio and Zachary Desiderio; four great-grandchildren, Anthony Desiderio IV, Ashton Desiderio, Ava Desiderio and Scotland Desiderio; and a host of nieces and nephews.  

A funeral service will be held at noon Thursday, Oct. 10, at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Road, Millsboro, where friends may call after 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park, Millsboro.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Tony’s name to Bayhealth Cancer Center, 640 S. State St., Dover, DE 19901.  

Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.