Obituaries

In Memoriam: Popular Area Barber, Tony Tamburello, 86

Popular area barber/hair stylist, Anthony Joseph Tamburello, known as Tony the Barber, of Tinton Falls, passed away on Thursday, July 10. He was 86.

Proudly born in Newark, Tony was nicknamed “Nino” by his family. He moved to North Arlington as a teen and graduated from Belleville High School, Class of 1956, where he played basketball and made lifelong friends.

“At just 20 years old, Tony opened his own barbershop at the Hotel Robert Treat in Newark. Over the years, he expanded to Deal and Asbury Park, eventually settling in Allenhurst, where he remained in business for more than 50 years.

“Tony loved to talk sports. He was especially passionate about his Jersey Shore Summer League team, the New York Yankees, Monmouth University basketball, and Monmouth Park horse racing.

“Known for having the best tan at the Jersey Shore, Tony’s impeccable taste in clothing made him a true dapper gentleman. Tony loved Italian food and had a strict policy: no dessert left behind — his or yours. 

“He was a devoted husband to Dr. Jean D’Arcy Maculaitis for 30 wonderful years …

“Full of life and music, like his namesake Uncle Tony — the 35-year music director for the legendary Tony Bennett — Tony had a deep connection to music. His melodious laugh and love for the beautiful sounds of Bennett filled his life, right up until his final day.

“The world feels a little less harmonious and a little less hilarious without T, but his beautiful aura and joyful tone will live on in all who knew him.”

Loved ones of Tony Tamburello in his obituary

Tony is survived by: his beloved daughters, Jill (Peter) and Geraldine Tamburello; his stepchildren, Martine Maculaitis (Ron), Alexis Gladieux (Matt), and Maria Feeney (Sean). Known affectionately as “Papa T,” he was cherished by his seven step-grandchildren, who were grateful to have him in their lives.

He was predeceased by: his dear sister, Maryann Bogle and her husband Robert; and his stepdaughter, Theresa (Ralph) Delgado.

A funeral service will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 20, at the John E. Day Funeral Home, 85 Riverside Avenue, Red Bank. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Tunnel to Towers, Covenant House, or Wounded Warriors.

Thank you from the heart for your friendship and prayers. Tony was one of a kind — a gentleman’s barber. We will not see someone like him again. We will miss him always.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via John E. Day Funeral Home