Tony will be very missed. He was always so dedicated to whatever he did and was always willing to offer sage advice when asked. I've always been very jealous of Tony, though, as he's one of the few I've ever met that never let anything stop him from doing the things he enjoyed or wanted to try anywhere in the world. Whether it was Fosters at the Rugby Sevens, helping people in Sri Lanka, pints at the Corney & Barrow in London, a meal of pork shank & beers at Maloney & Porcelli in New York City, a few drinks after a long day at FIRST or beers in the local hotel restaurant in Pune, India, Tony was always one of the first to volunteer.

If you've never seen the video Tony produced about India, please take the time. To me, it truly captured him. One afternoon NY time (past midnight in India) we hatched the idea that he should put together a quick slideshow to show people at Credit Suisse what India and its Pune office was all about. Tony took it to a whole other level, showing us the beauty, the tragedy and the routine about India, its people, its culture and life there as a foreigner. When it debuted, the room was weeping and laughing all at the same time. I'll miss my friend, this world traveler who always had time to laugh.


Joe Larizza
Credit Suisse

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I only was in the warm presence of Tony Paxton 5-6 times in the year that I have been a member of the NYC/NJ FIRST staff. I first encountered Tony via phone conversations as he led the NYC FRC effort while stationed in India for Credit Suisse. He would call in at 4AM India time to lead the teleconference calls moving to prepare and organize the 2008 NYC FRC. His voice on the phone commanded your attention and his joyful and pleasant manner made the calls special. I first met Tony in person at the NYC FRC in April . . . and his physical presence, warm human spirit, can-do attitude, insightful thoughts, and jolly way were so engaging. I felt honored and privileged to have the opportunity to work with him for a program that meant so much to him - and me. As we approach Thanksgiving, I am thankful and grateful to have come to know and work with Tony and deeply appreciate and applaud all his efforts to advance FIRST. One can see by reading all the posted comments that he was loved and respected by all. His life of service to his family and the many communities and causes is a model for all to follow. He was a remarkable, extraorindary human being and his presence and service to others will be sorely missed. May the God of us all bless Tony and his surviving family in many wonderful ways. May he be an inspiration to all of us to always look to reach out to help and serve one another. His life made such a positive difference. Joy to us all who had the pleasure to know and serve with Tony!

Donald Bowers
NYC/NJ FIRST Regional Director