Anthony Brian Zaso

Anthony "Tony" Zaso
March 31, 1981 - September 6, 2025

Anthony "Tony" Zaso, beloved son, brother, father, uncle, cousin, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on September 6, 2025.

An incredible artist with a gift for capturing emotion through his drawings, Tony dreamed of one day opening Twisted Pencil Design, his own art studio. He often said, "Art is the perception of your imagination"—a quote that perfectly captured how he saw the world: full of creativity and originality.

A lifelong collector, Tony's shelves were filled with treasures—baseball and football cards, Funko Pops, Garbage Pail Kids, Pokémon cards, sneakers (especially Jordans), and watches. A die-hard White Sox fan, he admired legends like Ken Griffey Jr. and Frank Thomas. Every October, he embraced his love for Halloween with enthusiasm, crafting costumes that reflected his vibrant imagination.

Tony was born in Rochester, New York, and moved to Indiana at a young age. He attended Hamilton Heights Elementary, Middle, and High School, where he made lasting friendships and many memories. After graduation, he went on to study at Vincennes University before beginning his career.

In 2015, Tony made a brave move from his family and hometown in Indiana to North Carolina for a job opportunity with True Homes. Over the past 10 years, he earned the respect, friendship, and admiration of everyone who knew him. Most importantly, it was this leap of faith that led to his greatest joy—becoming a father to his son, TJ (his favorite person). Fatherhood was his proudest role and the truest reflection of his generous, loving spirit.

Tony's passions were matched only by his loyalty and love for his family. He, his mom, and his sister shared a special bond, calling themselves "The Three Musketeers." He adored his niece and nephews—always cheering them on and making sure they knew how much he loved them. His life was made brighter by his two dogs, Belle and Sunny, who were always by his side.

Athletic and determined, Tony once earned Athlete of the Year, proudly wearing number 58 as the center on his football team and competing in track. Music was another joy—Phish, Dave Matthews Band, and Sublime were among his favorites, and he never missed a good laugh with Modern Family.

You couldn't miss Tony—he was tall, with a presence that filled any room—but beneath that big frame was a gentle, kind soul. His big, beautiful blue eyes were as full of warmth and expression as his art, and it was no surprise he was voted "Best Eyes" in high school. Even the way he wore his visor—upside down and backwards—somehow made perfect sense, like he saw the world through a different lens.

Tony had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and loved. His creativity, humor, and genuine spirit will live on in every memory, every sketch, and every heart he touched.

Tony is survived by his son, Anthony "TJ" Zaso; his sister, Lyndsey Zaso-Meier; his former wife, Liz Zaso, mother of TJ; his nephews, Aidan Zaso and Anthony Meier; his niece, Addyson Meier; his father, Roger Zaso; his stepfather, Jim Goodson; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was predeceased by his loving mother, Cynthia Zaso, and his grandparents, Milton and Arlene Kilpatrick, and his uncle, Rob Cleveland.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Baxter Village Hall (Main Room), 3387 Richard's Crossing, Fort Mill, SC 29708. Family and friends are invited to come together to share memories and honor Tony's remarkable life, followed by lunch.