Anthony Joseph Pauletto, affectionately known as Tony, passed on November 29th, 2021 at the age of 68 at Bowers Hospice House.  He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley in 1970, before attending West Virginia University. He returned to Beckley to run his parents meat business. He opened Tony’s Quality Meat making a successful name for himself as an individual business operator during very difficult times in WV. Easily identified in his trademark red apron and WVU ball-cap, Tony has been operating his store in the Beckley community since 1990.

 

He was predeceased in death by his parents Tony and Minnie Pauletto of Skelton,WV, brother James Roosevelt Pauletto, and a sister Mrs Mary Ann Bassett of Merion, PA.

 

He is survived by his children Erica Ford of Denver, CO (Husband John Ford and beloved only grandchild Addison,) son James Anthony Pauletto of Beckley,WV and Daniel Joseph Pauletto of Denver, CO. He is also survived by a sister Dr Ferrel Pauletto of Barnegat Light, NJ.

 

While always happy to show off the many animals he’s raised and the fruits of his garden, Tony’s greatest joy was spending time with his many friends, family, dogs, and watching Mountaineer sports. A fun-loving and kind man who enjoyed both hunting and fishing, Tony was known to many in the community for hosting his renowned pig-roasts. He could often be found shooting pool, playing cards, and simply shooting the bull with friends.

 

A lifelong early-riser, Tony’s other past-times included drinking coffee, watching the evening news, and always falling asleep during the episode of Law and Order that followed. He had a fondness for westerns, specifically Gunsmoke, and ire for all meats cooked well done.

 

Tony was notorious for refusing to adopt to smartphone technology, sneaking cans of Beanie Weenies against doctors orders, and enjoying cans of “The Silver Bullet” while relaxing with friends.

 

Famously opinionated and stubborn, he passed these traits along to his three surviving children, Erica Ford, Jimmy Pauletto, and Daniel Pauletto.

 

He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his many friends, beloved family, numerous customers, and anyone for whom regular cuts of meat just won’t cut it.

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 3rd, from 5pm - 7pm, at Melton’s Mortuary on 1200 Harper Road in Beckley. 
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association.