Anthony J. Fay, 57

Anthony “Tony” Joseph Fay, 57, of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away peacefully on Sept. 25, 2024, surrounded by his family, after a long and courageous battle with kidney disease that began in his teens.

He was born on Nov. 28, 1966, in Laconia, to Joseph Fay and Anna Parker. Tony grew up in New Hampshire, attended the University of New Hampshire, and earned his respiratory therapy degree from NH Technical Institute. In 1990, he married the love of his life, Kristine Fay. Twelve years ago, they relocated to Fort Myers, Florida, to embrace the warmer climate and sunny skies.

Tony's unwavering commitment to both health care and craftsmanship reflected his genuine care for others and his creative spirit. As a respiratory therapist, he devoted himself to enhancing his patients' quality of life. For him, it was not merely a profession, but a true calling. His talent as a wood craftsman further highlights his meticulous attention to detail and love for his family, as he created stunning, functional pieces of art. Tony’s life was a remarkable blend of compassion and creativity.

Tony was a brave and resilient soul, facing his health challenges with remarkable strength and determination. Despite not always feeling his best, he was often the first to crack a joke or share a witty comment to lift the spirits of those around him. Known for his kind heart, sharp humor, and generous nature, Tony brought joy to everyone he met. He loved a good game of golf or cribbage, riding his Harley, playfully teasing his nieces and nephews, spending quality time with family and friends, and doting on his cherished golden retrievers.

Tony is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Kristine Fay, and his golden boy, Clyde. He also leaves behind his parents-in-law, Dan and Sherry Turgeon; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Amy (Steve) Wilczynski and Lynn (Steve) Denoy, all of Fort Myers, Florida. In New Hampshire, he is survived by nieces and nephew, Tonyel (Rob) Berry, Elizabeth (Chris) McDonough, John (Katy) Mitchell; his brothers, Fred Shute and Steven (Jean) Fay; as well as his brother-in-law, Al (Marjo) Mitchell. Tony is also remembered by many beloved nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.

He was preceded in death by his father Joseph Fay, mother Anna Parker, sister Wonda Mitchell, and brother Rodney Shute.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the ICU doctors and nurses at Gulf Coast Medical Center for their compassionate and attentive care of Tony and his family during this difficult time. As many of you know, Tony was the recipient of a donor kidney, which granted him 27 years of good health and meaningful life experiences; he was forever grateful for this gift. In Tony’s honor, his family encourages you to learn about organ donation and consider becoming a donor, so that others may receive this same life-saving gift. For more information, visit organdonor.gov.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Golden Retriever Rescue of Southwest Florida (grrswf.org), in memory of Tony's deep love for his goldens.

Tony, you were loved by so many and will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life will be held to recognize the countless lives you touched. It will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22, at Fratello's Restaurant, 799 Union Ave., Laconia. 

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” —  A.A. Milne