John Calabrese

Obituary for John Tony Calabrese

March 11, 1946- April 23, 2020

John Tony Calabrese went home to his Lord last year on April 23 at Baltimore-Washington Medical Center, at the age of 74. Tony was born in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Hattie Sunderland and John Calabrese. He was the loving husband of Denise Calabrese for 46 years; devoted dad of Jordan Calabrese (Jennifer) and Kerry Diamond (Mitch); and proud PaPa of grandchildren Jewelia, Jordan Jr., Cody, and Colton. He was the dear brother of Marlane Fissell, Jerry Calabrese Sr., Doris Horney, and Robin Stinchcomb, as well as Linda Smith, Juanita Schanken, and Pauline Calabrese, sisters who preceded him in death. In addition, he was the self-proclaimed “favorite” uncle, brother-in-law, and cousin to many.

Tony was first and foremost a family man. He cherished memories of taking his children, in their younger days, boating and crabbing, or cheering them on at their sports events. He was always eager to cook a spaghetti dinner for everyone, and looked forward to the annual summer family vacation at Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head as a time to bond with his children and grandchildren. Tony was a member of Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church for over 40 years, where he taught Sunday school, was involved in prison ministry, and played guitar for the praise service. Tony also enjoyed playing the guitar with his buddies, often entertaining friends with the jam sessions. He loved nature and delighted in the simple pleasures of life—playing cards with friends, going to antique stores with his sister, fishing, watching sunsets. He took pride in his collections of railroad lanterns, seashells, and sports memorabilia. Tony will be remembered for his sense of humor and love of puns, as well as for his sensitive soul and gentle spirit.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 11 am at Mount Carmel United Methodist Church, 4760 Mountain Rd. Pasadena, MD 21122 on Saturday, May 22, 2021. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church, or to Chesapeake Bay Foundation.