Anthony “Tony” Vera, 81, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, in Syracuse, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on June 18, 1944, in San Juan, Tony was raised in New York City, where he developed the curiosity, compassion, and commitment to helping others that would guide him throughout his life.

Known to family, friends, colleagues, and all who loved him simply as “Tony,” he was a devoted father, grandfather, mentor, teacher, clinical social worker, grant writer, and lifelong advocate for community wellness. His wisdom, generosity, and steady presence touched countless lives.

Tony graduated from Hunter College, where he later earned his Master’s degree in Social Work. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, he built a distinguished career rooted in service, advocacy, and compassion. He believed deeply in the power of education, personal growth, and human connection, dedicating his life to helping others discover their strength and potential.

Throughout his career, Tony made a lasting impact on individuals and communities alike. He played an instrumental role in helping establish a community health center in Brooklyn, reflecting his unwavering commitment to expanding access to care and supporting underserved populations. For Tony, community health and human services were far more than a profession — they were his life’s calling.

Even in his later years, Tony continued doing the work he loved. As a development consultant, he remained active and engaged, supporting organizations and causes aligned with his lifelong mission of helping others. His dedication never diminished because his belief in service never faded.

To his family, Tony was a source of wisdom, guidance, and reassurance. In moments of uncertainty, he was the person everyone turned to — someone who could always be counted on for thoughtful advice, encouragement, and perspective. He had a remarkable ability to help others navigate life’s challenges with strength and clarity.

Tony was known for his intelligence, strong spirit, and unique way of doing things. He lived life on his own terms and truly “did it his way,” a quality admired by all who knew him. Though intellectually gifted and deeply knowledgeable, he carried himself with warmth, humor, authenticity, and kindness that made people feel instantly welcome in his presence.

He had a deep love for his Puerto Rican heritage, dancing, and music of every kind. Music brought him joy and connection, and he found happiness in rhythm, celebration, and togetherness. Tony also possessed an extraordinary passion for learning, reflected in the extensive personal library he built over many years — a collection that stood as a testament to his lifelong curiosity and love of knowledge.

Family meant everything to Tony. Though he and Palmira Vera divorced after 42 years of marriage, their bond and shared devotion to family remained strong. In a reflection of his character and compassion, Tony participated in helping care for Palmira during her battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Tony is survived by his daughter, Cynthia Hernandez, and her husband, Abraham; his son, Timothy Vera, and his fiancée, Nilda; his beloved sister, Maria Ocasio, and her husband, Ramon; and his cherished grandchildren, Jessica Vera, Christina Vera, Christian Hernandez and his wife, Marissa, Gabriel Hernandez and his wife, Berisa, Victoria Hernandez, and Olivia Vera.

He was also blessed with eight great-grandchildren: Timothy, Janiyah, Branden, Jordan, Theodore, Matthias, Levi, and Leila.

Tony was preceded in death by his brothers, Jose Vera and Henry Vera; his sisters, Josephine Vera and Carmen Maldonado; and is also lovingly remembered by his brother-in-law, Jesus, husband of his late sister Carmen.

Above all else, Tony cherished his family. His love, wisdom, and guidance created a legacy that will continue for generations to come. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments, but for the depth of his compassion, the generosity with which he shared his knowledge, and the profound impact he had on everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.

Anthony “Tony” Vera will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A celebration of Tony’s life for family, friends, and colleagues will take place in June, followed by the return of his ashes to his beloved birthplace of San Juan.