Donald Anthony "Tony" Saylor

A service to celebrate the life of Donald Anthony “Tony” Saylor, 53, of Lineville, will be held on Friday, March 29, 2024, at 12:00pm, at Anniston Memorial Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Holder officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Per Tony’s wishes, cremation will follow the service.

Tony passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2024.

Those preceding Tony in death are his grandparents, Willie B. and Cordie Saylor, and Thomas Pennington.

Left to cherish the memory of Tony include his son, Joshua Kyle Saylor (Laura); his parents, Donald Ray and Barbara Sue Saylor; his granddaughter, Lilia Saylor; one grandchild soon to be expected; his brother, Tim Saylor (Autumn); his sister, Kim Brouillette (Artie); four nieces; three nephews; his beloved dog, Bandit; and a close friend, Julia “Jules” Stephens-Hill.

To paraphrase Tony’s life into a few paragraphs is something very difficult to accomplish. He was truly a man’s man, a character larger than life, and an individual that lived life 110%. Tony never attempted or accomplished anything halfway. He gave his all in everything he did. 

Tony was a person who never wavered in trying new things, being adventurous and daring in many endeavors. He was not afraid to try anything once and of those things he tried, many became hobbies and pastimes for him. Tony loved to hunt deer and turkey and was also an avid fisherman; he raced motorcycles and rode a bull in a rodeo; he loved animals of all kinds, and the more dangerous they were the bigger a challenge Tony found in caring for them. He loved snakes and would take them around to different venues and schools educating others on them as much as he could. 

Tony taught line dancing for many years, as well as being a lead singer in a band, and being a DJ for a karaoke bar. His most famous quote was, “he who knows the least, knows the loudest”, which was prime material for anyone who knew him. Tony was a man who enjoyed practical jokes and making others laugh and lived life to the fullest. He was an accomplished painter and artist, and enjoyed watching IndyCar Racing. Also, Tony was very proud of being invited to the Junior Olympics (1986) in St. Louis for being a phenomenal and accomplished swimmer. 

Of all the things Tony experienced, there was one passion he had that outshined everything else, and that was his family. Tony dearly loved his son and daughter-in-law and was so proud of being a grandfather. He was very much looking forward to meeting his grandchild that is soon to be expected. Tony also had a special place in his heart for his brother and sister, along with his parents, of whom all cared for Tony deeply. 

Although Tony may not have always shown or expressed his love for his family by word or deed, they knew he loved them deeply and no matter the amount of distance between them his love never wavered. Tony will forever be remembered for his huge heart and his “larger than life” character. He will be greatly missed by many, but forever remembered for the amazing memories he gave his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you honor Tony by channeling your inner pirate, sitting by a campfire, and listening to Jimmy Buffet. And remember, “come Monday it'll be alright”.

“Serving Families with Compassion and Excellence”