Anthony L. Yodice

On November 21, 2023, Anthony Yodice was called home to be with our Lord.  He was comforted by his devoted wife of 55 years, Katherine, loving family and faithful caregivers through the last stage of his life.  Anthony is survived by his wife, Katherine Yodice, his children and their spouses, Anthony Yodice (Jayme), Kari Panaia (Trevin), and his grandchildren, Amelia Yodice, Madelyn Panaia and Justin Panaia.  He is also survived by his brothers John and Buddy and sisters Camille, Theresa and Mary Ann.  Welcoming him into the light of heaven with love, were his sisters Sally Ann, Dorothy, and Connie.

Anthony was born and raised on Avenue T in Brooklyn and McKinley Drive in Mastic Beach, NY.  He attended James Madison High School, where he played running back for the football team, wearing the number 33.  Childhood summers in Mastic Beach with his family (and Winnie the german shepherd) were among Anthony’s most treasured memories.  He reminisced about this time often in the last months of his life.  Recently he said with a smile, “I would go back to age 11 or 12 in Mastic.  We never had shoes on.  Never.  And we were the right age for it.  Took out Marty’s boat (named Butch) and cleared a lot full of pine trees to play Wiffle ball.”  He often felt nostalgic for these summer days, shared with his large family, in a simpler time.

After marrying Katherine in 1968, they moved to Long Island to raise their own family and work for his brother in-law at DiCarlo Food Service.  Those 30 years were highlighted with countless beautiful holiday celebrations and backyard parties for milestone occasions.  Anthony was an excellent cook, he would share his dishes with pride and was willing to share his recipes as well.  Unfortunately, they had very little in the way of measurements- a little of this, some more of that, not so much of the other thing!  His Sunday macaroni dinners simply cannot be replicated and will never be outdone.  Through the years, cherished memories were made from sharing beach and boat days, watching Yankees and Cowboys games, sun tanning and pool days, and bow hunting trips with his son and nephews.  A story or two may also be told about his line dancing talents, especially as lead engineer of the dance train.

Later on, his three grandchildren became the absolute light of his life.  He watched dance recitals, vocal performances, and basketball games with a heart full of pride.  He always sought updates on his grandchildren, a conversation never ended without him asking for more details or a picture.  When thinking about them recently he said, “these kids though, are so beautiful, so beautiful and so loving, that’s the main thing.  So loving.”  He was an incredibly proud Pop Pop who gave his grandchildren warmth, support, and love, and he felt their love in return.

Anthony will be remembered in many ways.  At this time of year, there is just one more to add.  His favorite Christmas song was “Joy to the World” and when it was played, he would sing along beautifully.  When you hear it this Christmas season, please think of him and enjoy what he did so fully- his family and faith.