Anthony “Tony” (or Sonny to his immediate family) DeMotta (May 11, 1927-April 3, 2023) grew up in the Bronx, married his wife Barbara (nee Wilburn) in 1950, and moved his family to West Islip in 1957. He had a long, enjoyable, and successful career in insurance, and retired in the 1980s. For Tony, friends and family were the greatest source of his joy. He was so proud to enjoy large family gatherings at Christmas parties, picnics, and weddings. We will remember him for his warmth and affection, his concern for others, his sharp mind, and of course, his signature humor and beautiful tenor voice. He had memorable “Dad-isms”: “Wrong again for the first time,” “My twin brother had a different mother,” and “Please wait just a 'minuet'.” Tony sang whenever possible: at family events, working around the house, making the Friday omelet, or doing the Sunday crossword. We all learned the words to most of the American songbook standards! He taught us tap dancing and the Lindy, and he could catch a pop fly in his mitt behind his back. Tony enjoyed golf and fishing and was a lifelong Yankees fan. We are so fortunate and blessed to have loved and been loved by a man of such grace, humility, and authentic happiness. In addition to his wife Barbara, Tony is survived by five children and their spouses: Robert DeMotta (Karen); Richard DeMotta (Filomena); Susan Castagna (Joseph); Linda DeMotta; Jeanne Bruno (Donald). Tony enjoyed visiting with and singing to his eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Frances Michaels and his brother Dr. Raymond DeMotta (Nancy) and predeceased by his sisters Jean Micalizzi and Paula Michaels. Additionally, Tony was proud of his large extended family of cousins, nieces, and nephews who often travelled from across the country for family gatherings.

If you wish to make a donation in Tony’s memory, please consider the following: Kent Animal Shelter https://www.kentanimalshelter.com Bright Focus Foundation -Macular Degeneration Research https://www.brightfocus.org American Heart Association https://www.heart.org/