Anthony (Tony) J. Forte, age 87, passed away in Boca Raton, FL on June 25, 2022. He was born on July 6, 1934 in Millbrook, NY and lived a life devoted to family and public service.
From an early age, Tony had a natural charisma and often used his trademark humor and warmth to make those around him feel comfortable, accepted, and cared for. He was elected President of the Student Council at Millbrook High School his junior year, and graduated from Arlington Central High School in 1952.
A man known for civic responsibility, Tony earned a Bachelor’s degree from Siena College and a Law degree from Brooklyn Law School. He was admitted to the New York and Vermont Bar Associations, and practiced law for more than 50 years. Career highlights include serving as Chairman of the Suffolk County Town Attorney’s Association, Town Attorney for Smithtown, NY for 10 years and the Assistant Town Attorney for Babylon, NY for six years.
Along the way, he met the love of his life, Barbara, at the Albany Veterans Hospital where Barbara worked as a nurse. The two shared a long and joyous marriage of over 60 years, created a beautiful family, and made countless memories together in New York, Vermont, and Florida.
Tony’s dedication to civic duty did not stop at work. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. He was a 4th Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus, and he was a member of the Suffolk County Republican Caucus and later the Vermont Republican Caucus. A practicing Catholic, Tony was a parishioner of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Millbrook, where he was baptized.
Tony was a fantastic golfer and an even better golf partner who would brighten anyone’s day with a joke, a story, or a wink. He also enjoyed restoring classic automobiles and had a knack for fixing things up. Above all, he loved spending time with his family and friends.
Tony truly lived life to the fullest, through simple pleasures like chatting with friends, swimming in the pool with his grandchildren, and completing the daily crossword puzzle with a strong cup of coffee in hand. He had an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way and will be remembered most for his devotion to others.
Tony, who eventually became “Dad” and “Papop”, is survived by his son Joseph, daughter-in-law Christine, granddaughters Chapel and Charis; his son Robert, daughter-in-law Adrienne, granddaughters Marissa, Alaina, Bethany, and Sophie; his daughter Donna, daughter-in-law Arlene, and grandsons Cameron and Aaron.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday, July 9 at 11 am from St. Joseph’s Church, Millbrook. Interment will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Millbrook. In lieu of flowers, please provide donations to St. Jude Children’s Home.
