Anthony (Tony) S. Russo, Sr., 90, of Timonium, Maryland, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 1, 1935, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, he was the devoted son of Joseph and Yolanda Russo.

From the very beginning, Anthony's strong personality was unmistakable. Entering the world at 9 pounds, 3 ounces, a nurse affectionately called him "Tootsie Roll" for his chubby arms and legs—hence his nickname, Tootsie that stayed with him throughout his life. He grew up as a proud big brother to his two younger sisters, a role he cherished deeply.

Anthony attended Norristown High School, where he developed a love of sports, especially baseball, which he played both in high school and later in the United States Marine Corps. He enlisted in the Marines during his senior year of high school on January 28, 1954, and was honorably discharged as a Sergeant on April 3, 1958. Anthony trained at Parris Island, and his last assignment was at Marine Barracks, NSA, in Fort Meade, MD. While serving, Anthony met and married the girl of his dreams, Bettyann Fazio, and together they had three sons and two daughters. After his service, he earned his GED, demonstrating his commitment to personal growth.

A man of faith, Anthony served as an altar boy at Holy Saviour Catholic Church in his youth. Throughout his life, he remained grounded in his values of family, faith, and country—principles that guided him in all that he did.

Anthony had a lifelong passion for athletics. He coached and refereed wrestling and baseball, sharing his love of sports with his three sons and younger generations. An avid golfer, he played in many tournaments and celebrated the rare achievement of three lifetime hole-in-ones. In his later years, he became an enthusiastic tennis fan, especially of Carlos Alcaraz. In 2025, his son Anthony gave him the unforgettable gift of attending the U.S. Open at Flushing Meadows, where he watched Alcaraz win a semifinal match—a day he treasured deeply.

He also enjoyed playing pool and poker, spending time in friendly competition, always bringing his signature intensity and spirit.

Anthony built a successful career in the insurance and financial planning industry before retiring. Yet his true legacy lies not in his profession, but in the way he lived his life—with authenticity, conviction, and heart. A devoted admirer of Frank Sinatra, Anthony embraced the philosophy of living life "My Way." His honesty was unwavering; you never had to wonder where he stood. While his candid advice might sometimes earn an affectionate eyeroll from his family, his many life lessons will be remembered and cherished.

A traditional man, Anthony valued punctuality, respect, and responsibility. If he said something would happen, you could count on it—his children often joked, "If Dad said the hinges would fall off the door, the hinges fell off the door." His most memorable proverbs are "A new broom sweeps clean" and "Even a broken clock is right twice a day."

At home, Anthony found joy in simple pleasures. He enjoyed painting and loved to cook, faithfully preparing his weekly lemon pasta and frequently making his beloved pepper and onion pizza.

Above all, his greatest honor and joy in life was being called "Pop." Anthony's family will forever cherish his strength, wisdom, humor, and unwavering love. He will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend—a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Anthony is survived by his beloved partner, Patti Jo Hammer, of thirty-seven years. Loving father of Joseph Russo (Mary), Anthony Russo Jr. (Anne), James Russo (Cheryl), Rosemary Russo Norris (James), and Catherine Russo Stamerro (Joseph). Cherished grandfather of Anthony Russo, III, Robert Martin, III, Eric Russo, Christopher Talansky, Joseph Russo, Sydney Talansky, Luca Russo, and great-grandfather of Landon Poletynski and Kyleigh Fertita.

Also survived by his sisters, Catherine Russo Grasso (Thomas) and Adelaide Russo Marchese.

Pre-deceased by his parents, Joseph Russo and Yolanda Russo (Nee Timbario), his wife Bettyanne Fazio Russo, and his newborn son, Eric Russo.

Family and friends are welcome to the family-owned Ruck Towson Funeral Home on Thursday, April 30, from 5:00-8:00 PM. A funeral service to take place on Friday, May 1, at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Parish, 100 Church Ln, Cockeysville, MD 21030. Burial to follow at Garrison Forest Veterans' Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the National Kidney Foundation