Anthony Andrew Zona Sr., a lifelong Rhode Island resident, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2026, at the age of 92 after a brief illness. Born in Providence to Antonio and Jessie Zona, he was married to Carol Pezzullo for 68 years and is survived by their four children, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Anthony graduated with honors from La Salle Academy and earned a summa cum laude degree from the University of Rhode Island, where he joined the Phi Kappa Phi honor society. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War and had a distinguished 40-year career as a global executive with Corning Glass Works and GTE Sylvania, living in various U.S. cities and London but always rooted in Rhode Island.

Known affectionately as “The Dude,” Anthony was celebrated for his people-first leadership style, earning lasting respect from colleagues and employees alike. He contributed extensively to Rhode Island’s economic and community organizations. Outside work, Anthony enjoyed woodworking, masonry, youth hockey coaching, golf, and spending summer days at Rhode Island beaches with his family. His legacy is marked by dedication to family, leadership, and community.