Anthony Joseph Tortorici

Loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Anthony Joseph Tortorici passed away on March 26, 2026, and was received into eternal life. Anthony was 83 years old and was surrounded by his loving family when he passed.

Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Tony built one of the most distinguished careers in the public relations industry, beginning as a young journalist working simultaneously at ABC-TV Cleveland and United Press International while attending college full-time — a testament to the drive and work ethic that would define his life.

His corporate career took him through a series of increasingly influential roles, most notable among them being his thirteen remarkable years as Vice President of Public Relations for Coca-Cola North America, where his work was recognized by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) with the Silver Anvil Award celebrating the best in public relations strategy. During that time, his work reached national and international audiences, and he became one of the most respected communications executives in the country. In 1990, Tony joined Ogilvy PR Worldwide as Executive Vice President of Marketing and Head of European Operations, bringing his expertise to a global stage.

In 1992, he channeled a lifetime of experience into founding Tortorici & Randolph — later TortoriciPR — where he served as CEO and Owner, earning a reputation for integrity, creativity, and results. His philosophy was simple and enduring: public relations is about “influencing attitudes to affect action.” He was the kind of leader one wanted to follow. He taught that respect comes from being accessible, supportive, and never thinking too much of oneself. He was both the team leader and a team player, which endeared him to the many people who were privileged to work with him.

In 2013, Tony bought Cupcakelicious, a beloved sweet shop in historic downtown Woodstock, GA. For the next eight years, he delighted in bringing joy to his customers through cupcakes, macarons, and ice cream.

In recent years, Tony brought two life-long dreams to fruition. He wrote and published a song, “Another Brand New Christmas” and published a book with his daughter, “Find Your Light! Theater is Life. Life is Theater.”

As proud as Tony was of his professional legacy, nothing meant more to him than his family, who cherish his many mottos, such as: “Don’t do anything stupid.” “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.” “Are you asking me or telling me?” “Just the headlines.” “Give me the elevator pitch.” “Air is the enemy of freshness.” And the way he always signed his cards, “All the best!”

A deeply faithful man in every aspect of his life, his Catholic faith was the quiet foundation beneath everything he did and the grace with which he faced life’s challenges, of which there were many in the end.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Antoinette, whose love and partnership anchored every chapter of his remarkable life; his loving and devoted daughter Angela and son-in-law Frank Mantero, and grandchildren Marisa, Francisco, Olivia, and Antonio; his son Anthony Joseph Jr. (Annette), and their children Anthony Joseph, Nick, and Lauren; Giovanni Tortorici; and his brother James (Debbie). He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Janet; his brother, Joseph; and his son Vincent James.

Tony Tortorici leaves behind a family that was his greatest treasure, a faith that sustained him throughout his days, and a reputation built on integrity, hard work, and a genuine belief in the power of human connection. He is now at rest in the arms of the Lord and held in the eternal light he so faithfully sought in this life.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 30 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Spear Miller Funeral Home, 39 S. Benson Road, Fairfield, CT

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, March 31 at 10:00 am at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 1719 Post Road, Fairfield, CT.

Private interment will take place at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Trumbull, Connecticut.

In lieu of flowers, cards and letters may be sent to: 9 Canterbury Lane, Shelton, CT 06484