Anthony J. D'Alessandro Jr.

Visiting hours will be held Sunday evening from 4-7 PM at the Alexander F. Thomas and Sons Funeral Home 45 Common Street Walpole.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday morning at 10:30 AM at Blessed Sacrament Church Walpole.  Interment at St Francis Cemetery Walpole, relatives and friends invited.  Please in lieu of flowers all donations can be made to The American Diabetes Association www.diabetes.org. or the Walpole Scout Center 4 Scout Rd. East Walpole 02032.



Anthony J. D'Alessandro Jr., known affectionately to friends and family as Tony or "Jr," passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, at the Foremost Nursing Home in Sharon. Born on March 15, 1932, in Beverly, Massachusetts, Tony spent his formative years there before moving to Hyde Park, MA, where he would go on to live for 52 cherished years.

Tony was the beloved husband of the late Edith (Leone) D'Alessandro, whom he married in 1953 and adored until her passing in 2003. He was a devoted father to Lucille Aprea and her husband Richard of East Walpole, Anthony J. D'Alessandro III of Marshfield, Peter D'Alessandro of Naples, Florida, Lydia Pagliarini and her husband Mark of Wrentham, and Paula Serani and her husband Anthony of Foxboro. He was a cherished brother to Concetta Balerna and her late husband Joseph of Cumberland, Rhode Island, and he was predeceased by his siblings Domenic, Nicholas, and Mary Luciani. Tony was also a longtime companion of the late Marian Scali. His legacy includes 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored as their loving "Papa." Tony's extended family of loving nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends will fondly remember his gentle spirit and kind heart.

After graduating from Hyde Park High School in 1950, Tony immediately joined his father's business as a machine operator, expertly handling bulldozers and steam shovels. He dedicated his life to the family business until his retirement at the age of 57, when the company was dissolved. 

Tony's interests were a reflection of his rich Italian heritage and his deep love for family. An avid gardener, he was renowned for his lush tomatoes and for jarring his own flavorful sauces. A true connoisseur of home cooking, Tony delighted in making everything from scratch, including sausages, roasted peppers, and his own wine—a process that involved crushing the grapes and overseeing every step until the final pour. He was the proud proprietor of a store in Cleary Square, where he sold an array of imported Italian foods and was especially known for his selection of cold cuts.

Cooking was Tony's passion, and he was the heart of many family gatherings, especially on Christmas Eve, when the house would be filled with the aroma of the traditional seven fishes and other Italian delicacies. Sundays were sacred, reserved for pasta and roasted dinners with in-laws—a testament to his love for big family dinners.

Tony's zest for life extended beyond the kitchen. Summers were spent at Nantasket Beach, where he would dig for quahogs, or at Paragon Park in Hull with his children. He also enjoyed visiting Hollywood, Florida, to stay at his parents' house. An enthusiast of horse racing, he never missed an opportunity to join his brother-in-law Charlie at the track.

A lifelong fan of the Red Sox, Tony fondly recalled his younger days working summers at Fenway Park. His gentle, loving, and kind nature made him a cherished figure not only within his family but also in the broader community.

Anthony J. D'Alessandro Jr. lived a full life, one that was rich in tradition, family, and love. His memory will be treasured, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. Tony's life story is one of devotion, passion, and a deep-rooted sense of community, and he will be profoundly missed by all.

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