Anthony “Tony” Brian Lopez, 43, of Texico, Illinois, passed away on September 20, 2023, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mount Vernon.
He was born September 13, 1980, in Houston, Texas, to George and Claudene (Overstreet) Lopez.
In addition to his parents, Tony is survived by his sisters, Dagny Lopez of Richmond, Texas, Samantha Lopez of New Albany, Indiana, and Georgette (Lopez) Helpingstine and husband, Ryan, of Texico, IL; several nieces and nephews; and honorary siblings, Schuy Okraj and Joe Ginestri. Tony was preceded in death by his grandparents, Claude and Frances Overstreet, Sally and Vince Moreno, and Samuel C. Lopez; and his beloved cat, Angel.
Tony was an avid saltwater aquarium enthusiast and spent many long hours perfecting his aquariums. He had a heart the size of the state he loved most, Texas. Often you could find Tony out in nature exploring LaRue Road during snake season. He was an avid Kentucky Derby fan and was always planning to make that winning bet. He also enjoyed fishing, bowling, rescuing animals, playing pranks on friends and family, and daydreaming about becoming a famous moonshiner. Tony could talk for hours about his Lonestar Steakhouse family and always had an answer to every question (even when he was wrong). Tony never knew a stranger and could make friends with almost anyone. He was the life of the party and knew exactly how he wanted things. Tony will be dearly missed.
Tony’s family is hosting a celebration of his life, which will be held on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Panther Fork Baptist Church in Texico, Illinois. Memorials may be made in Tony’s honor to The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation or any local animal rescue organizations and will be received at the service.
