Obituary of Anthony J. DeLuca

Anthony DeLuca, lovingly known as "Tony," passed away on February 18, 2025, at the age of 77. A native and lifelong resident of Staten Island, New York, Tony's warm heart and creative spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Tony is survived by his youngest brother, Joseph DeLuca; sister-in-law, Joyanne DeLuca; nieces, Maria DeLuca, Toni Muriel, Lexine DeLuca, and Skyler DeLuca; and his cherished pup, Blinky. He is predeceased by his brother, Vincent DeLuca; mother, Grace DeLuca; and father, Vincenzo DeLuca.

Born on July 31, 1947, to Vincenzo and Grace DeLuca, Tony's artistic talents were evident from a young age. After graduating from Port Richmond High School, he became a well-known hair stylist, renowned for his skill in creating the perfect look. In 1967, Tony was drafted into the United States Army, where he served as a medic for two years, traveling the world and forming lasting memories. Though this experience gave him a lasting fear of flying, his close friends and family knew to keep their travel plans under wraps until they safely returned, mindful of his deep-seated concern about air travel. 

Upon returning to civilian life, Tony briefly worked at the Manhattan Post Office before rekindling his passion for the arts through interior design. He co-founded Nouveau Riche Interiors Inc. with his longtime friend John Cirino, and their work was recognized by the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce Building Awards being accredited with the Excellence in Art for Holy Trinity St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Bulls Head, and Excellence in Exterior, Interior, Craftsmanship, Natural Beauty and Interior Decorating. Tony's elegant designs, known for their class and detail, left a lasting legacy in the New York and New Jersey area.

Tony's love for family was unwavering. He served as a parental figure to his youngest brother, Joseph, nurturing a bond that transcended their 15-year age gap. As a devoted uncle, Tony doted on his four nieces and played a significant role in raising his third eldest niece, Lexine DeLuca. His love was often expressed through thoughtful gifts, especially jewelry, which he had an uncanny knack for selecting.

Known for his explicit language, quick wit, and love for the finer things in life, Tony's personality shone through in everything he did. Whether driving his beloved Mercedes and Cadillac convertibles, enjoying meals at his favorite Chinese restaurant, or helping furnish his family's homes, Tony's benevolence and authenticity were ever-present. His signature greeting, "Hey Gorgeous," will forever echo in the hearts of the women in his life.

Tony was also a cherished member of the "Three Musketeers," a close-knit trio of friends consisting of Tony, Ronald Guerrier, and John Cirino. Their decades-long friendship was filled with weekly dinners, hearty laughter, and countless celebrations, creating memories that will endure for eternity.

After a long battle with illness, Tony has now reunited with his loved ones, including his beloved pups Chuckie, Nicki, Romeo, and Juliet. To know Tony was to know love, loyalty, and laughter. While he will be deeply missed by all who knew him, both personally and professionally, especially his loving family and caring friends, he won’t be far. His laughter lingers in our memories, his style in every beautiful space he touched, and his love in the bonds he helped create. Tony lived boldly, loved deeply, and will always have a way of making our lives a little brighter.