Anthony "Tony" Leo Fernandez

Anthony “Tony” Fernandez , age 60, passed away Friday, December 6, 2024, in his sleep. He was born on May 04, 1964 in Canton, Ohio to his loving parents Antonio (Barbara) Fernandez and Maryann Fernandez. He was the cherished brother of Deana (Larry) May and Leopold (Cathy) Fernandez. He leaves behind much loved nieces and nephews. He was a devoted father to two wonderful children, Toni Fernandez and Tori Fernandez, that he shared with Vivian Fernandez. He was the beloved husband of Cassandra “CJ” Jones.

Tony graduated from Central Catholic High School in Canton, Ohio in 1982. He relocated to Hollywood, Florida and joined the City of Hollywood Police Department in 1988. He proudly served in multiple roles at the department, including as a Task Force Officer with the Drug Enforcement Administration, a SWAT team operator, and as the Sergeant of Vice Intelligence and Narcotics. He retired at the rank of Sergeant in charge of the Marine and Beach Unit in 2016. He remained a member of the Broward County Police Benevolent Association. He maintained robust, rowdy friendships with many of his brothers and sisters within the department.

Tony found peace in community, family, and friendship. He was particularly proud of the strong, spirited women his daughters, Tori and Toni, had become. He was eternally grateful for the family he built with Vivian and for every precious moment spent with his girls. Tony was a dedicated father who tirelessly worked to make his girls' dreams a reality. He coached their football teams, invested in their musical education by purchasing equipment and providing lessons, and always took pleasure in preparing their favorite meals. His everlasting love and devotion for his girls were evident in every action and throughout every moment.

In 2004, fate brought Tony and CJ together as colleagues. Their professional bond deepened into friendship, and eventually, love. They married in 2016. United in an extraordinary partnership, their bond was as enduring as the love they shared. They established a tranquil retreat on a horse farm in Greenwood, Indiana and embarked on numerous adventures. They shared a passion for motorcycles, strengthening their bond in the thrill of long rides and close calls on the road. Skilled equestrians, they loved horse camping and riding events. Tony was especially fond of his horse, Rosco, and his farm dog, Boone.

Tony had a unique way of inspiring others. He often shared his wisdom, encapsulated in his signature advice, “If you’re dumb you gotta be tough.” Tony possessed an unwavering strength of character. He was a loyal friend, a loving family man, a steadfast advocate for justice, and a rock that everyone in his life came to lean on. He will be deeply missed.

Celebrations of Life will be held at the places Tony called home throughout his life - Ohio, Indiana, and Florida. Details for the Ohio and Florida celebrations are forthcoming.

The Indiana celebration will be held on December 18, 2024 at the Greenwood Community Center located at 100 Surina Way in Greenwood, Indiana from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Please join his family and friends in a casual, open house style gathering to celebrate and share Tony’s life and legacy. A brief remembrance will be held at 4:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to https://gofund.me/a87a8eef to assist with the unexpected expenses brought by this tremendous loss.

Arrangements handled by Bell Mortuary & Crematory, Shangrila Chapel, 1444 W US HWY 52, Fountaintown, IN 46130.

Online condolences at www.bellmortuary.com