Gerald Franklin Anthony, 83, passed away on May 22, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, entrepreneurship, and devotion to family. Born on December 2, 1941, in Stubenville, Ohio, to Hazel Beatrice Barker/Anthony and Louis Charles Anthony, Gerald was raised alongside his older brother Lewis Charles Anthony, who resides in Greenwood, Indiana. On March 12, 1962, he married the love of his life, Eunice Rachel Musgrave/Anthony.
After graduating from Wayne High School in 1959, Gerald embarked on a journey marked by determination and enterprise. He purchased a Texaco gas station and worked alongside his father as a taxi driver. His career path then led him to the Ohio State Patrol Academy, where he trained while welcoming his first daughter, Kathryn Annette Bower, into the world in 1964. Subsequently, he joined the Titanium Mill in Toronto, Ohio, utilizing his skills as a heat treater in the lab.
Relocating to Florida, Gerald became a valued employee at Woolco, owned by Ameron Automotives. Undeterred by challenges, he ventured into entrepreneurship, founding AARCO, where he worked tirelessly until its closure in 2019. Throughout his professional journey, he was joined by his son, David Gerald Anthony, who worked alongside him at AARCO.
Gerald Franklin Anthony will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his commitment to hard work. He leaves behind cherished memories and a profound impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In addition to his professional accomplishments and family devotion, Gerald Franklin Anthony was a talented guitarist whose love for music and faith in God were central to his life. Growing up in Bloomingdale, Ohio, he was surrounded by the sounds of his uncles playing guitar, igniting his passion for music at an early age. With his childhood friend, Malcom, affectionately known as Mickey, by his side, Gerald honed his skills and became a skilled guitarist, playing by ear rather than relying on sheet music. His guitar became a vessel for expressing his devotion to God, as he joyfully shared his musical talents with his church community. Gerald's faith was a cornerstone of his identity, and in 1965, he dedicated his life to Christ, embodying his belief through both his words and his music.
Gerald Franklin Anthony's legacy extends beyond his professional and musical pursuits to his impact on the next generation. As a devoted father, he not only supported his son David's passion for baseball but also coached his Little League club, the "South Brandon Little League." Gerald's guidance and encouragement fueled David's love for the sport, ultimately paving the way for David's successful college baseball career. Moreover, Gerald cherished his role as a grandfather, with eight grandchildren bringing him immeasurable joy and pride, thanks to the loving families of both Kathryn and David. His influence as a mentor, coach, and patriarch will continue to resonate within his family for generations to come.
Funeral services will be held 12:00 P.M. Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Southern Funeral Care, Riverview, with the family receiving friends one hour prior to services. Interment will follow at New Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Samaritan's Purse International Relief.
Previous Events
Visitation
1
Jun
10510 Riverview Drive
Riverview, FL 33578
Service
1
Jun
10510 Riverview Drive
Riverview, FL 33578
Cemetery Details
Location
207 New Hope Road
Brandon, FL 33510
