Anthony J. Desiderio, age 88, of Millsboro, DE formerly of Lester, PA passed away on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at his home.

Tony was born in Philadelphia, PA on March 30, 1936 son of the late Vincenzo and Margaret (Depietro) Desiderio.  He was proud to have served his country in the United States Army.

Tony retired as a correctional officer with the Holmesburg Prison after nearly 40 years of service.  He enjoyed working on cars and liked to try to fix anything that was broken.  Tony enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, cooking, and creating his own food creations, a talent he learned as a cook in the Army.  He also loved going to flea markets, fishing and spending time with his family.  He was inseparable from his high school sweetheart Joan.  He loved taking her for long rides and finding new places to eat. He was a kind and loving father who would do anything for his children.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Desiderio in 2018 and five brothers, Al Desiderio, Salvatore Desiderio, Mario Desiderio, Dante Desiderio and Phil Desiderio.  Tony is survived by his three children, Anthony Desiderio, Jr. (Lisa) of Garnet Valley, PA, Michele Desiderio (Mark Hecksher) of Millsboro, DE and John Desiderio (Heather) of Greenwood, DE; five grandchildren, Anthony Desiderio, III (Karissa), Christopher Desiderio (Katelyn), Nicholas Desiderio (Kim), Joshua Desiderio, Zachary Desiderio four great grandchildren, Anthony Desiderio IV, Ashton Desiderio, Ava Desiderio and Scotland Desiderio; a brother Victor Desiderio and a host of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 12 noon on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Rd., Millsboro, DE 19966, where friends may call after 11 AM.  Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Millsboro, DE.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Tony's name to Bayhealth Cancer Center, 640 South State St., Dover, DE 19901.