Anthony Accettullo passed away peacefully to his heavenly reward on March 16, the day after his 98th birthday, surrounded by his children. Anthony was born in Revere on March 15, 1926, the first child of Joseph and Esther (DeYeso) Accettullo. Here he spent an idyllic childhood in a close-knit Italian neighborhood, surrounded by a large extended family and neighbors who were like family. After high school, he went on to Mass College of Pharmacy, graduating in 1948. Afterwards, he served in the US Army, as part of the post WW2 peacekeeping force stationed in Karlsruhe, Germany. Here, he ran the pharmacy on the base, assisted by his younger brother Joe, who by a lucky coincidence was also stationed in Germany. A year after his return to the States, he met the love of his life, Eleanor Karam, at the College Dances in downtown Boston. He always called her "my own Elizabeth Taylor" due to her resemblance to the movie star. They married in June 1954, in a double wedding with Eleanor's sister Lorraine and husband Ed Baccari.

After their marriage, they settled in Melrose, and have been residents ever since. Their family grew over the years with the arrival of their four children, two girls and two boys, just as they had dreamed of and discussed on their first date. Anthony and Eleanor shared a love of unwavering devotion and would have celebrated their 70th anniversary this June.

Anthony was devoted to family, with weekends, birthdays and holidays spent in large extended family gatherings. We all have hundreds of memories of great food, great conversation and the unbounded joy and love of these gatherings.

In addition to his strong family values, Anthony was a man of deep religious faith. A devout Catholic, he was a communicant of the Incarnation Parish of Melrose since its inception in 1958. He could often be found in prayer, with a special affinity for the Blessed Mother.

Anthony worked as a pharmacist in both retail and hospital pharmacy for over 40 years. Following his retirement, Anthony lived his best life! He and Eleanor traveled extensively in Europe, Canada and the USA. Bermuda was one of Anthony's favorite places. Anthony and his wife had a large circle of friends and an active social life. With the responsibilities of work and raising a family behind him, Anthony was finally able to follow his life-long passion for artistic expression, creating scores of paintings which he exhibited around Melrose and the nearby communities. He also worked in stained glass, like his father before him, creating many beautiful pieces.

Anthony was a kind and gentle soul, a beautiful writer, and a great cook. He was a nurturing dad and an extraordinary grandfather. He really shone in his role as Grampy! He had a way with babies and young children, who always gravitated toward him. He created so many warm and loving memories with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Anthony is survived by his wife Eleanor, his four children, Donna Accettullo, Cheryl Homeyer and husband Bob, Paul Accettullo and wife Annie and Marc Accettullo and wife Carol. He leaves behind his grandchildren Arielle West and husband Deven, Khalan Bridges and partner Lynn Maleh, Alex Homeyer, Christiana Fink and husband Dave, Maria Kenney and wife Marisa, Paulie Accettullo, and Marisa Accettullo, and great-grandchildren Isaac West and Ellie, Lily and Laney Fink.

Anthony was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Esther Accettullo and brother Joseph Accettullo. He is survived by his sister Marian Maffeo, brother Ronald Accettullo and wife Diane, sisters-in-law Irma Accettullo, and Lorraine Baccari. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Anthony's life for visitation on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster Street, Melrose from 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home at 9:30 am immediately following the visitation. Burial will be in Mt. Benedict Cemetery, 409 Corey Street, Boston MA. 02132. There will not be a funeral procession to the cemetery. Those wishing to attend the burial we will be meeting at the cemetery just inside the main gate of the cemetery at 11:15 AM then we will drive to the grave together.