Anthony J. Tencza “Tony” was a joyous soul who could always be counted on for a laugh and a good chat. Tony passed away on April 27, 2022 at his home in Corolla, NC, surrounded by his loving family. He is deeply missed and will be forever held in the hearts of his family, Debbie (wife), Jessica (daughter), Cora (granddaughter), and Barbara Henley (sister). In his final days, Terry and McKee Dunlap (sister and brother-in-law) were constantly by his side sharing their love. The family is planning a celebration of Tony’s life in October 2022 with details to be announced.
Tony was born in Fort Bragg, NC on January 11, 1951 to Anthony and Pauline Tencza. Tony was the youngest of three, with sisters Barbara and Linda and always a energetic child. Tony grew up in Fairfax, VA and attended Dyke College in Ohio.
At the young age of 25, Tony married the love of his life, Debbie, in 1975. They celebrated a too short 46 years together. Their lives together spanned the decades and the full realm of love. They had two beautiful daughters, Jessica and Mellissa, and one amazing granddaughter, Cora. The girls grew up in a house that always had music blaring and fun happening. After spending most of their lives in Reston, VA, Tony and his family moved to Corolla, NC in 2015. The Outer Banks had been a passion for Tony since he and Debbie honeymooned there in 1975. It was a dream come true for Tony to finally live in Corolla. He loved walking the beach every morning to collect sea glass and other treasures.
Tony’s career capitalized on his amazing gift to draw people into conversation. He found every person he met fascinating, and he could have a lengthy conversation with a total stranger at any point. He was always interested in the goings on around him and could be counted on for some silliness that left everyone he met smiling.
His sales career at 3M and later Lyngsoe Systems utilized his love of chatting and traveling. In his retirement, he continued to use this talent selling wine and helping at the family’s business, Bacchus Wine and Market. Tony was an integral part of Bacchus and the family’s life in Corolla. Most days he could be seen picking up his granddaughter at the 100-year-old local charter school. His love of Corolla and the school has inspired his family to dedicate all expressions of sympathy to the Water’s Edge Village School as they grow and expand their campus. Donations can be made to Ready? Set? GROW! (givebutter.com).
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.