Deacon James (Tony) Salamone

Deacon James (Tony) Salamone, age 80, passed away on March 31, 2023, in Hot Springs, AR. He was born on January 4, 1943, in Chicago, IL, to the late Frank Salamone and Antonina Miosi. He served four years in the Navy from 1962 to 1966. He then worked as a computer programmer until his retirement.

In May 1985, Tony was ordained as a Permanent Deacon in the Catholic Diocese of Chicago. In this role he preached, visited patients in hospitals and nursing homes, ministered to those experiencing divorce, and assisted at church liturgies. His greatest joy was working with Life Teen, a faith building program for Catholic youth. He loved “his” kids and they loved him. Many credited him with helping them grow stronger in their faith. In 1991 he and his family relocated to Phoenix, AZ, where he continued his diaconal ministry and enjoyed exploring the many different wonders of his new home. In 2009 retirement and family brought Tony and his wife to Mena, AR, where they rejoiced in living close to their daughter and grandchildren. They were received with warm, welcoming arms by the parish family of St. Agnes Catholic church, where Tony continued his diaconal ministry.

Tony is survived by his wife Roberta, his sister Marcy Vitchus and husband Bernie, son Anthony Salamone, son Daniel Kast and wife Janice, daughter Tracy Carpenter and husband Joel, daughter Elizabeth Mattucks and husband Don, as well as seven grandchildren:  Lizzie, Eric, and Ethan Sutherland; Donald Mattucks; George Kast; and Mackenzie and Ryan Carpenter.

Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday, April 12, at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Mena, AR. Visitation will be at 9:00, a Rosary at 9:30, and Mass at 10:00. Interment will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Mena, AR.

About Author