Anthony J. Mezzacappa Jr., passed away peacefully on May 14, 2024, in Neptune, NJ at Jersey Shore University Medical Center after a two year courageous battle with cholangiocarcinoma. Born on February 2, 1962, in Kingston, NY, to Anthony and Dorothy Mezzacappa. Tony's life was marked by dedication, bravery, and a deep love for his family.
Tony enlisted in the United States Army in 1980 leading him to an unwavering commitment to his community and country as a police officer for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. His courage shone brightly on 9/11 as a first responder, a role that exemplified his selflessness and heroism. Following his retirement from the police force in 2017, Tony continued to protect and serve by working as a security officer for the Manalapan/Englishtown school district, where he was not only a guardian but also a friendly face to many.
Anthony is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Maryanne Mezzacappa, and their three cherished daughters, Jenna Mezzacappa, Taylor Mezzacappa Francisco (son in-law Nicholas Francisco), Alexa Mezzacappa and precious granddaughter Eva Rose Francisco; sisters Lisa Hartnett and Karen Heber and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Anthony and Dorothy Mezzacappa.
Tony's legacy is not only in the lives he touched through his professional endeavors but also in the values he instilled in his family. His example of integrity, resilience, and compassion will live on through them and through the countless lives he impacted both in and out of uniform.
As we say goodbye to Anthony J. Mezzacappa Jr., we celebrate a life lived with honor and kindness. His story does not end here, for his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. Tony's memory will be cherished, and his life celebrated as a beacon of service and love that will never be extinguished.
We take solace in knowing that Tony's journey was one of purpose and that his time with us, though too short, was marked by achievements and affections that many aspire to but few attain. His was a life truly well-lived, and his legacy will endure in the hearts of all who loved him.
Visitation will take place on Sunday, May 19, 2024 from 2:00pm - 6:00pm at Waitt Funeral Home, 501 Hwy 79, Morganville, NJ 07751.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday, May 20, 2024 at 10:00am at St. Benedict's Roman Catholic Church, 165 Bethany Rd, Holmdel, NJ 07733.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Tunnel to Towers Foundation at https://t2t.org/donate/ or The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation in Memorium of Anthony J Mezzacappa Jr. at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/CCFMemorial/team/AnthonyJMezzacappaJr