MIDDLEBURY — Anthony “Tony” Joseph Neri passed away peacefully in his sleep Feb. 24, 2026. He was born June 29, 1940, lived a life defined by rhythm, whether it was behind a drum kit or at the helm of a business. Raised on Pemberwick Road in Byram, Conn., with his beloved sister Angie, Tony was the cherished son of Mary Giunta Neri and Anthony Paul Neri, whose steady love grounded his quiet strength.

From big stages to barn floors

A natural percussionist, Tony’s talent caught fire early. Before finishing high school, he was signed by the William Morris Agency, eventually touring with Robby and the Troubadours. But when the band split in Chicago, his father staged a legendary “intermission,” sending Tony to New Haven, Vt., to learn the art of milking cows.

Tony brought the rock-and-roll lifestyle to the farm, wiring the cow barn with a high-decibel sound system. To the surprise of local farmers — but perhaps not Tony — the cows loved the beat; milk production doubled — plus Tony’s milk was said to have the highest butterfat content in Addison County.

A life composed with love

Vermont offered more than just agriculture; it gave him the love of his life, Nancy Foote. The two fell for each other with a quiet certainty, building a world centered on their two sons, Anthony Abram (1966) and Paul David (1969). Family summers on Lake Dunmore became the backdrop for a lifetime of humor, determination, and lakeside memories — especially during the 4th of July, when Tony would host his epic BBQs and a grand display of fireworks for hundreds of friends and family to enjoy.

The Middlebury mover and shaker

Tony’s entrepreneurial spark was ignited at a local bar called The Alibi. Noticing a perpetually empty cigarette machine, Tony didn’t just complain — he launched Middlebury Vending two days later.

By the 1970s, his hustle had expanded from pool tables to a restaurant empire. He became the face of Middlebury hospitality, owning and operating: Tony’s Pizza, Mamma Neri’s, Paisano’s restaurant, Angela’s restaurant, MV Catering, and more recently, The A&W and Greg’s Market.

Tony transformed the local dining scene with the same energy he brought to his drums — with passion, a bit of flair, and a whole lot of heart. He leaves behind a legacy of hospitality and a family who will always march — and dance —to his beat.

Love of community

Tony was a proud member of the Middlebury Lion’s Club. His work there deepened his love for Middlebury and beyond. He was a founding member of the Middlebury Development Corporation, which sparked industry and jobs for the local community. He was very proud of his support for Porter Hospital, Lake Dunmore Fern Lake Association, and many other local nonprofits. This work led him to the Miss Vermont Pageant and then on to become an Executive Director of the Miss America Pageant.

The fair, the fish, and the legacy

Beginning in 1972, the Neri family’s calendar revolved around one high-octane week — Addison County Fair & Field Days. It was a true family production — slinging Tony’s Pizza and Mamma’s Meatballs, running the arcade, and serving up his legendary Hot Italian Sausage. Those long, flour-dusted days forged the family’s identity in hard work and laughter.

When the season was a success, the reward was just as classic — a break from the Vermont chill for the magic of Disney and the quiet backwaters of Marco Island, where Tony traded the restaurant kitchen for a fishing rod.

A life well-played

Tony’s journey took him from the neon pulse of the music world to the mist of a Vermont morning; from a chance meeting with Nancy to a lifelong, unbreakable bond. He was a man of ingenious pivots and deep devotions.

Tony is predeceased by his parents, Mary “Mama” (Guinta) and Anthony P “Papa” Neri; and his sister, Angela Neri. Tony is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy (Foote) Neri; his eldest son Anthony and wife Karen; his son Paul and wife Janice; his cherished grandson, Anthony Paul Neri and his mother Elizabeth Spitler; and dear cousin, Terry Lacava, with a wide circle of friends who were like family in every way that mattered.

From the drum to the kitchen, Tony lived life at full volume. His passion, his hospitality, and his heart will be remembered with a smile by everyone. Tony lived with an unmistakable cadence. His life was a beautiful composition of family, food, and film-worthy stories. He may have stepped off the stage, but his rhythm will play on in the hearts of everyone he knew and loved. And the beat goes on.

A funeral service will be held Friday, March 6, at 10 a.m., at Saint Mary’s Church of Middlebury, 326 College Street, Middlebury. A reception will follow, from noon to 4 p.m. at the American Legion, 49 Wilson Road, Middlebury. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Middlebury Regional EMS. ◊