Anthony Joseph (Tony)
February 2, 1945 – July 16, 2025

Anthony Joseph (Tony) was born in Utica, NY, on February 2, 1945, the son of Charles and Florence Joseph. He passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Tony is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Ann Joseph; his children, David Joseph (Julie) and Jennifer Preisser; and his cherished grandchildren, Jordan Joseph, Cole Joseph, Rebekah Preisser, and Jake Preisser. He is also survived by his sisters, Marilyn Ceiko (Dennis) and Audrey Furgal (Gary), and was predeceased by his brother, Charles Joseph.

Tony grew up in Utica and, after graduating high school, earned a degree in X-ray technology. His career began at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, where he met the love of his life, Ann. In 1968, they moved to Rochester, where Tony helped establish the radiologic technology program at Monroe Community College. He served as a beloved professor there for 48 years, deeply committed to his students and the field he loved.

Tony lived a life centered on faith, family, and service. He and Ann were a constant presence at nursing homes, sharing warmth and encouragement with residents. At Koinonia Fellowship Church, Tony actively served in many capacities, including joining a medical missions team that traveled to India to care for those in need.

Known for his joyful spirit and generous heart, Tony made everyone he met feel valued and loved. He was a living example of Christ’s love, always ready to share his hope and faith with others. His impact will be felt for generations, and he will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

Calling Hours:
Wednesday, July 23rd, from 4:00–6:00 PM
Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home (Egypt Location)
7501 Pittsford Palmyra Road, Fairport, NY

Memorial Service:
Thursday, July 24th, at 10:00 AM
Koinonia Fellowship Church
500 East Main St., East Rochester, NY

In lieu of sending flowers we ask you to make a donation to a charity of your choice in Tony’s name. 

107 responses to “Joseph, Anthony (Tony)”

  1. Tony’s infectious smile, always upbeat, never (I mean NEVER) heard him complain or be bothered by anything that wasn’t going right. No one had to explain anything, Tony was madly in love with his “Annie”. He would talk of his daughter and son with such pride. His soft spoken words of his family would bring peace and happiness to the room. I knew Tony for 26 years at MCC. I am honored to have worked with Tony and so grateful for his friendship. Tony was a true example of love, family, and faith. Speak of Tony often. There will be tears, yet such fond memories may give you peace and gratitude. May your faith and friendships give you the strength and guide you through this difficult time. You are in His hands. With understanding and Love, Bobbi

  2. I have known Tony for about 45 years, and whether it was as my professor at MCC, friend, co-worker when I returned to MCC as an instructor, and always a mentor – Tony was always the most upbeat person in the room. He cherished his wife and family (especially his grandchildren), and time spent with them. He truly cared about people, his work in the church, and his garden (except for the deer that ate the tomatoes). He will be missed!!

    My thoughts and prayers are with you Anne, David, Jenny, and family.

    ALARA Forever!!

    Dominick DeMichele

    • Dominick,

      Thanks for the kind words and I know my dad cherished your friendship over the years.

      Much appreciated
      Dave Joseph

  3. Tony touched so many lives in his career at Monroe Community College especially his students and colleagues. I worked with him for 41 years. He was the rock and foundation of the Radiologic Technology program at MCC since it’s inception in 1967 until his retirement 50 years later. We were all blessed by his dedication to the profession and his fellowship. May God bless and keep you Tony and send his peace to your beautiful family. Eileen

    • He blessed so many lives in the radiology program. He lives on in all of us who were taught by him. He was an amazing professor, and I am lucky to be part of the program of which he taught. He was a man who enjoyed his work and taught knowledge to others to also enjoy their work. He was the king of acronyms. If it wasn’t for him, I would not be where I am today. My condolences to his family and loved ones.

    • Eileen,

      Thank you for all 41 years of friendship with my dad at MCC. He always spoke highly of you and cherished his time with the students and faculty at MCC.

      I believe his legacy will live on long after his passing. Certainly in the hearts of his family and friends he will be missed, but we know he’s in a better place.

      Thanks
      Dave Joseph

  4. Tony’s smile was infectious. He had a glow about him that radiated Christ’s Love. You could not be in a bad mood with Tony around. He loved and adored everyone like no one else I have known. He shared love only Jesus could give. His Crowns in Heaven are many I’m sure. Well Done for sure.
    Love you Tony….Thanks for Everything.💕💗

    • Thanks Jody!

      You and Bobby have always been a blessing to my dad and our family.

      See you guys soon!
      Dave

  5. My heart breaks hearing the news but he has a straight shot to heaven, he had a heart of gold. His presence was everything. He made made every single student feel seen and heard. His smile went right to your soul and you were lucky to have known him. His compassion and skill of teaching radiology was more than just a job it was his passion and it touched every student. Even if someone was doing something wrong in class he would ease in quietly and say “hey, I love what you’re doing, it’s great, but let’s try doing it another way” with a comforting smile and thumbs up. He didn’t want you to feel stupid, he wanted to see you succeed. Tony Joseph made the world a better place and I am so saddened to hear of his passing. His lasting impact will be impossible to forget.

  6. Dearest Tony you will be missed. Your wonderful smile, vibrate personality and infectious laugh left a memory on anyone you met. We have lost a wonderful man and my thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time of loss. Roxanne (MCC)

  7. I’m so sad to see this. Tony was one of my instructors at MCC and was just an amazing person. Through his words and actions he taught me what it truly means to treat others with compassion, patience, and respect. His warmth left a mark on everyone who had the privilege to know him. He will be deeply missed and always remembered.

  8. Tony was such a blessing to all around him. He was joyful, thoughtful, and encouraging, and he was a person you could always count on for a laugh or a prayer. He and Ann had a beautiful marriage and they were a foundational couple in the church.

    My heart goes out to Ann and the family during this time of loss. We know that Tony has received an inheritance that is imperishable and praise God for his reward in glory for a life well spent. He will be very missed. May God be near to all who loved him and miss him.

    • Thank you, Marilyn.

      He was a blessing and great example to all who knew him.

      Blessings to you and your family.
      David Joseph

  9. Tony was such an amazing person. He was my professor in Radiology and always made class fun. I don’t think I ever saw him without a big smile on his face. There are people you meet throughout your life that you will never forget…this was Tony. Rest easy Tony. Thank you for being an amazing educator and making a difference in people lives.

  10. Uncle Tony (as we called him) was my fav Xray tech teach ! Always a smile and kind encouragement was offered !

    • Bruce,

      Somehow, my dad was uncle to more people than I can count…lol.

      Thank you
      Cousin Dave 🙂

  11. Tony was such a warm and caring friend and mentor. His sense of humor made the days fun. It is hard to imagine a world without him in it. My thoughts are with his family that he cherished. Ann, his great love,was so lucky to have him. Dave, Jenny and your kids were lucky to have him. Life is different now but he will always be with you all. Love,Paulette

  12. Tony will be missed by so many. He called me to pray for my needs faithfully. We also often prayed for Ann and their kids and grandkids. Many answered, PTL!
    See you soon, Tony!

  13. Growing up next to the Joseph family, Tony and Ann were fabulous neighbors. Tony was always positive and a Man beaming with God’s love. He will be so missed by many, many people. Heaven is rejoicing! Love to the whole family.

    • Thank you, Robin!

      You, Bobby and Jodi have always been a blessing to us!

      Love you guys!
      Dave Joseph

  14. Tony Joseph was my mentor (as he was to so many!). He lived and breathed teaching. We all wouldn’t be who we are without Tony’s influence, support and awesome teaching. He left an amazing legacy. His “kids” range in ages, but the sentiments are all the same. Tony will be missed more than any of us could express. I can still see his infectious smile and his trademarked thumbs up. He always wanted every student to feel important and seen. He saw the good in all that we did. My thoughts are with his family. If anyone had a direct path to the pearly gates, it’s Mr Tony Joseph. I will always hold him close to my heart. ALARA forever Tony!! You will be missed!!

  15. So sorry to hear of Tony’s passing- he was one of the best instructors I had-skull work was my least favorite and he made it fun-Prayers and thoughts to Tony’s family

  16. Tony made you want to be a better person. I’m honored to have learned from him. His wisdom will live on because he cared so much for his students and his profession. I can’t think of ALARA without thinking of him. He had the best smile and the most contagious energy. You will be missed Uncle Tony. Thought and prayers to your family.

    • Here, here, Melissa; all so true!
      Tony was a phenomenal teacher—warm, funny, and always had a smile that lit up the room. His wisdom and positivity left a lasting mark. Holding close everyone who loves him.

  17. Oh Tony. He was such a wonderful human being. A true once in a lifetime teacher who left his mark. The kind of teacher so dedicated and passionate, he made you excited to learn. The kind of person and teacher you remember for the rest of your life. He prepared you not only for graduation, but the career. I was lucky and blessed to be taught by him. Tony, I wish you eternal peace and warm memories to comfort your family.

  18. Tony or “Uncle Tony” to so many of us, you will be missed. I am forever grateful for your time, patience and knowledge. There was never a day your smile did not light up the room! Thank you for being the best professor. Thoughts and prayers to your family.

  19. Tony was a gifted, energetic, and compassionate member of the faculty at Monroe Community College. His dedication to his students and his profession was exemplary. And that great smile won the hearts of so many. Health Care in the Greater Rochester Community owes you so much.

  20. Tony was a beloved professor at MCC for almost half a century. Every time I get an Xray, I ask the techs if they knew Tony and they invariably did. What a life well lived. RIP.

  21. This is such sad news for all of us left behind. Tony lit up every corner with his enthusiasm of life, joyful spirit, warmth and kindness for all. All of us fortunate enough to share our lives with Tony in any capacity are all the richer for the relationship. I saw Tony last, 19 years ago this month at my mom’s funeral. Such a faithful and heartfelt man.
    Anne, David, Jenny may you be comforted in your joyous memories of this very special guy.

  22. Of all the people we served with in the Christian community (and outside of), Tony was always the brightest, most positive, man of God we’ve ever known. Never a sour word about anything or anybody or any circumstance… always a big beautiful smile, kind words, and ready prayer… an authentic reflection of Christ. And Annie… just as beautiful a person. God blessed us with both of you.

  23. Praying for Tony’s family. Tony was a great encouragement to my husband Don in his prison ministry work. His son David was a reflection of his father. What a legacy!!!

    • Thanks, Anita.

      He was a wonderful dedicated and humble man much like Don.

      They are both in a better place!

      Blessings to you and Leticia!
      Dave Joseph

  24. Toni was an exceptional individual and the best teacher I ever had. He always greeted us with a warm smile, full of encouragement and support. We all loved Toni, and he will be greatly missed.
    My thoughts and prayers extend to your family during this difficult time.

  25. Dave
    So sorry for your loss my friend condolences and prayers go out to you and your family. Your father was one of a kind, a true gentleman and a wonderful human being. One thing that I will always remember fondly about your father is that he would leave me the best
    voice messages. May you rest in peace my friend.
    Amen 🙏 🙏

  26. As a student/graduate of XRT Class of 1979, I recognized early on that Tony was a master educator with a strong capacity for kindness, hard work, dedication and grace for others. He was approachable, a great listener, always consistent and forever my cheerleader! He lived his love for Jesus in who he was, what he did and how he moved through life.

    Decades later as a MCC colleague, Tony became a noteworthy mentor and wonderful advisor in my early days of teaching. I was blessed to have him as a role model. He believed the best, and worked towards the best, in every situation.

    Well, Tony, I know you got the golden ticket for the express elevator ride to heaven. I can hear Jesus say “Well done good and faithful servant” as He welcomes you to the room He has prepared specifically for you in His mansion!
    Rest assured that your legacy will live large in all of us who knew and loved you!

    Heartfelt condolences to his beloved family and to the entire radiology community.
    Cynthia P. Smith, EdD, RT (R)

  27. I feel so fortunate to have known Tony for a small part of my life. He was an excellent human, truly radiated the room with his presence (pun intended!!) He was on everybody’s side, all the time. Everyone’s cheerleader. I graduated the program the year he retired from it. What a pleasure it was to be there for the end of his amazing career. This was such heavy news to hear. I will always remember him. I’m so sorry to all family and friends for such an incredible loss. The world has lost a good one for sure.

  28. What a blessing Tony has been to our church, as well to each of us individually. Always a caring smile, and available for prayer or sharing an encouraging word. We’ll miss his presence, but will see him again with our Lord, Jesus Christ. Love and prayers to his wife and family at this time.

  29. Tony Joseph was a wonderful Brother-in-law and Uncle. Tony was always upbeat, never looking on the bad side of a situation or people he met. Tony never judged anyone and accepted them as they are, giving a person grace. He was kind, generous and a true servant of the Lord. I loved Tony’s positive, happy attitude about life in general. He was a shining example of how you should live your life. Tony just raised the spirits of people in a room with his wonderful smile. I feel blessed and privileged to have him in my life these past 57 years. Tony was the best husband, father, brother and brother-in-law ever. We all love you Tony and you will be truly missed, always.

  30. What a mark gentle and kind Tony made on anyone fortunate enough to cross paths!
    ALWAYS smiling, always caring, always encouraging…
    Thank you Tony for all you were and did to make this world a better place for your family, friends, colleagues and students.
    I remember when Anne’s mom was nearing the end of life and you saying ” they are making a mansion for her”.
    No doubt Tony has a special place in heaven!

  31. Tony was my brother in law for more than 50 years. His infectious smile and loving attitude will live on in the hearts and memories of everyone he touched. I always told him that Neh.8:10 was his life verse: “For the joy of the Lord is my strength.” There are no words to describe a life lived so beautifully. Tony, you fought the good fight, you finished the race and you kept the faith. That’s the ultimate legacy any man could leave. You are leaving a big hole in all our hearts.

    • Thanks Aunt Molly!

      My mom, Jen and I truly appreciated you and uncle Jimmy visiting when you did. I was a true blessing and will not be forgotten….

      Love you guys!

      Dave Joseph

  32. Recently had a scan asked tech if she knew Tony
    shared best instructor. Living in the area running into Tony always time to chat. Peace to your hearts in the days to come, cherishing beautiful memories.

  33. John Pupparo Such a beautiful soul. If you were sick,recovering from a hospital stay,he would always call you on tuesday’s to pray with you,and encourage you also. He was so kind,so generous, authentic. He ministered to many nursing homes during his life. We are all better christian’s because of Tony. His example of his love for Jesus should ignite us all to serve the Lord the rest of our lives with the same passion he had. I already miss him. Love you Tony. We will see you soon

    • Thank you John!

      He was a great example of serving others with love.

      Blessings to you!
      David Joseph

  34. Please accept my deepest condolences, dearest Anne, and family.
    Tony, it was such a joy to have met you and shared some time talking about yhe Lord and and being encouraged by you whenever our paths would cross on this side of glory.
    Tony was so well loved by all his students at MCC where he was an incredible radiology technician instructor. I often ran into him at URMC with a whole flock of students. He was said to “always make them feel important and gave them the confidence to succeed”. That was so like him, encouraging and oh, how he loved our sweet Lord.
    We have a hope dear brother, …be seeing you Tony!

  35. Please accept my deepest condolences, dearest Anne, and family.
    Tony, it was such a joy to have met you and shared some time talking about the Lord and being encouraged by you whenever our paths would cross on this side of glory.
    Tony was so well loved by all his students at MCC where he was an incredible radiology technician instructor. I often ran into him at URMC with a whole flock of students. He was said to “always make them feel important and gave them the confidence to succeed”. That was so like him, encouraging and oh, how he loved our sweet Lord.
    We have a hope dear brother, …be seeing you Tony!

  36. The world has lost a beautiful soul. My condolences to Tony’s family and friends. I was also a student of his, Class of 2015, and was there to see him finish out his 50 years of teaching at MCC. I was helped him clean out his office, man the stuff he had in there!! He let me keep some cool textbooks I found in his collection he’d gathered over the years. 🙂 I was just talking about him last week with a fellow student I work with. All of us RT’s that learned from him carry his lessons and positivity he shared with us every day. He is definitely missed.

    • Angie,

      Thanks for the kind words and for helping him clear out his office! Must have been a big project….lol.
      Dave Joseph

  37. Tony was an unbelievable teacher to me. I came into his class an older student, but he made me feel just like the other much smarter students! Always smiling and a positive reinforcement attitude. But more than anything he was an EXCEPTIONAL human being….we should all take note!!! Rest my friend, see you on the x-ray 🙂

  38. Tony,
    32 years ago you showed me how to go from woodworking to X-ray tech to teacher and I will always be thankful for that. You introduced me to a new career, community, and how to treat people in need with respect, kindness, and a smile.
    There is a special place in heaven for you. Thank you for all you have shared with me.

  39. Dave and family,
    We are so very sorry to hear about Dad. He was truly one of a kind and touched so many lives with that laugh and infectious smile!! Being one of his past students I’ll never forget how comfortable he made me feel in the most stressful of situations.. esp the semester of the skull!! It was there that Dad met Frank and highly encouraged him to also go into Radiology…. And the rest was history. Tony was one of the best professors we have ever had!! We send our thoughts and prayers to you and the family. He will truly be missed.

  40. I will always remember Mr. Joseph as being such a nice loving person. Spending time with the Joseph’s in middle school, high school and college always brings back happy fun memories. So sorry for your loss, Mrs. Joseph, Dave and Jen.

  41. We will miss Uncle Tony so much. There are truly no words to describe how much this loss hurts. Reading all the memories and stories about him shows what a truly wonderful man he was. A smile that always lit up any room he entered! I do not ever remember seeing him angry. I loved seeing him and Aunt Ann together and witnessing what true love really was. He was truly a wonderful person and everyone who was lucky enough to know him was left better for it. Our hearts truly ache for all of you and our entire family. We love you all and are praying for you.

  42. A childhood friend of Jen’s, I remember Mr. Joseph so fondly as a warm and positive dad. Sending my deepest sympathies to the entire family. With Love, Jill Carleton Janaczek

  43. I spoke with Pastor Tony several times over the last two years as my compeer friend requested prayers from him for her surgery. She spoke of how kind he was . Pastor Tony was quick to respond with words of encouragement for her My compeer will miss him a lot. Now I send prayers to his family and thanks for his ministry here on Earth.

  44. I would not be the technologist I am today if it weren’t for the wonderful teachings of
    Tony. He was a great man and I learned so much from him. He always had a smile on his face and his personality was contagious. May your family take comfort in knowing all the lives he touched! I put RT after my name for Tony. He always said be proud of those letters 🙂

  45. My life has been truly blessed to have known Tony for over 30 years. Three words come to mind when I think of him. Leader. Mentor. Friend. As a leader with the most radiant smile; he showered everyone in his presence with the utmost kindness and respect. As a Mentor, he taught us all to be the best we could be both personally and professionally. As a Friend; Tony was always there to support us through happy times and sadness. He was always by our sides and I know in my heart he will always be by our side; guiding us. Prayers to his beautiful family and friends.

    • Thanks Deb!

      You have been a blessing to our family for many years.

      We appreciate you!
      The Joseph Family

  46. I always remember Mr. Joseph’s warm smile and welcoming personality. Whenever we spent time at the Joseph’s as teenagers, both Mr. and Mrs.Joseph talked with us and made us feel comfortable. He was so kind and caring. Jim and I are very sorry for your loss.

  47. No matter what I was going through, seeing Pastor Tony always lifted me up. I thank God for his positive and encouraging spirit. I am very sad I will not see him in this life and will forward to seeing him in heaven with our lord and savior Jesus Christ. May God comfort Ann and all the family as they celebrate Tony’s life and memories.

  48. Dear Joseph Family,
    Tony was so dear to my husband and I, serving with him at Koinonia Fellowship. Words can’t express our heart of thanks for him and Ann’s loving care and prayers and friendship. Please know that you are all in our prayers.
    Sincerely,
    Sarah and Roger Reddy

  49. I was very sad to hear the passing of such a wonderful man and human being. I’ll never Forget when my daughter was born Tony and Ann came to see us in the hospital and Tony gave her a kiss on her forehead and then whispered to me I’m the first man to kiss Victoria and with that beautiful smile I felt so happy that I knew him. He was just a beautiful person he will be missed by many but never ever Forgotten RIP Tony until we meet again God Bless ❤️ 🙏🏼 🌹

  50. Tony was extraordinary. As an instructor and a mentor, he made complex subjects simpler, with warmth and encouragement, earning respect as the king of acronyms who inspired countless students to succeed, including me.

    But beyond teaching, his commitment to sharing Christ’s love brought comfort and hope to all who would listen. He wore his faith on his sleeve every day, imparting it through his actions, wisdom, and choice of words.

    For me, Tony’s legacy reveals how mastery in one’s profession paired with authentic human connection creates ripples far beyond the classroom. His ability to teach technical skills while embodying compassion transformed routine education into transformative life lessons that continue to influence healthcare professionals today. As an educator, Tony demonstrated that combining expertise with empathy fosters lasting student success, extending beyond academic knowledge. I stand as a Radiology Tech today because Tony gave me a second chance. That extra push, that faith, that prayer he offered strengthened resolve and provided courage to persevere through my difficult time. He believed in me when I was alone, and to this day, I continue to fuel my career with that same faith to impart to others.

    In our lifetime, there will be few people who cross paths and leave a lasting impact on our lives. It could be for a minute, it could be for 2 years, and you will never see that person again. But know that their light will always shine in our hearts, that their faith shaped our character to continue to carry the light to this world.

    Tony, you will be missed. You have run the race, fought the good fight, and are now in the presence of He who sent you to this world to walk in the shadow of Christ and make an impact on everyone you encounter. We rejoice in faith because one day we will see you again!

    Love,
    Josue, Jasmine, and Constantine Valle

  51. Tony was the best example of what a follower of Christ should be, he was kind and compassionate and always available for prayer. We were privileged to know him and Ann. We are praying for Ann and the family that they will be comforted and at peace knowing that Tony is walking the streets of gold with Jesus our wonderful savior.
    Love, Frank & Diane Rivaldo

  52. I was a student of Tony’s, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without his kindness & encouragement. He was a gentleman, and most importantly, a gentle man. His zest for life was apparent in everything he did. Saying prayers of peace and comfort for his loved ones tonight.
    The loss is immeasurable, but so is the love left behind.

  53. I’m sorry to have just learned of Mr. Joseph’s passing. May he rest in peace, and surely with that unforgettable smile he is looking down on us all.
    Class of 1978 XRT

  54. I just heard about Tony passing. I’m so sorry to hear this. He filled the room with happiness. When you walked into the classroom or was attending clinical Tony had a gentle mannerism about him. As a student your stressed out trying to make sure you’re doing the exam correctly….Tony removed all that stress. The kindest professor I ever had. May he rest in peace and will surely be missed.
    Prayers to Dave and the family.

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