Anthony "Tony" Monte, affectionately known as Poppy to those who adored him, embarked on his final voyage beyond the sunset on April 10, 2025. Born on October 23, 1936, in Hackensack, NJ, Tony's zest for life and contagious laughter began to spread joy from the very start. He charted his course to Bradenton, FL, where he cast his anchor for the last time, surrounded by the warm breezes and the love of his family.
Poppy was the proud patriarch of a family that included his beloved wife of 70 years, Noreen Monte; their two children, Corrie and Anthony; a crew of 13 grandchildren; a fleet of 8 great-grandchildren; and his beloved sidekick, Rocky the dog. He was the son of the late Anthony and Lucille Monte and the brother of Elaine. It's said that his father's wit and his mother's charm were the north stars that guided him through life's journey.
With a captain's boat license in hand, Tony was as comfortable on the water as he was on land. His service in the U.S. Army was marked by the same dedication and spirit he brought to every endeavor. After his military service, he navigated the entrepreneurial waters, owning an aluminum siding business that was as sturdy and reliable as he was.
Not one to sit still, Tony also led his own band, where his rhythm was as smooth as his martinis-with exactly three olives, thank you very much. Tony's work ethic was matched only by his love for the open road, driving a tractor-trailer across the country, where every highway was a punchline and every rest stop a chance for a quick one-liner.
But it was on the water where Poppy truly found his peace-fishing, boating, and clamming with his feet, as if he were searching for the world's funniest clam. And you can bet he had a joke for it when he found it. His love for the Florida Keys was no secret; it was there that he could indulge in his passions for lighthouses, Italian food, and seafood-all while plotting his next escapade or tall tale.
Poppy's humor was as legendary as his generosity, and his ability to reel in both fish and laughter was unparalleled. Tony Monte was a man who lived for the love of family, the thrill of the catch, and the joy of a well-timed joke. He was loving, funny, and generous-a true original who could find the humor in any situation.
His stories, often as embellished as his fishing tales, will be told and retold, ensuring that his legacy of laughter will continue to echo through the generations. As we bid farewell to Poppy, we imagine him sailing off to that great comedy club in the sky, where the martinis are always perfectly mixed, the fish always bite, and the laughter never ends.
Anthony "Tony" Monte may have left the stage, but the spotlight will forever shine on the memories he created, the lives he touched, and the joy he spread. So here's to Tony-may the seas be calm, the fish be biting, and the punchlines always land. We'll miss your laughter, your warmth, and the generous spirit that made you the one and only Poppy. Sail on, you magnificent captain of comedy, and know that you have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were lucky enough to share in your journey.
A Graveside Service will be held on April 18,2025, at 12:00PM at Fogartyville Cemetery 4200 3rd Ave NW, Bradenton, FL 34209.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 26th Street Chapel, 5624 26th Street West, Bradenton, FL, 34207, is in charge of arrangements.
