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Chef Anthony "Tony" James was a beloved father, brother, uncle, mentor, teacher, friend, and the kind of man who inspired kindness as much as he encouraged mischief. His sharp wit and dry humor kept everyone on their toes—or rolling their eyes.
Born to Samuel and Catherine "Kitty" James (nee Boyle), Tony grew up in a lively household in Birkenhead, England, with his siblings: Catherine "Kate" Tighe, Terence “Terry” James, Christina “Tina” James, and Patricia Carr (Chris). Though his parents, Kitty and Samuel, and his sisters, Kate and Pat, have passed on, Tony always kept their memories close to his heart. Even after moving to Canada at age 20, Tony remained anchored to his roots, staying connected with his family by calling home every Sunday and welcoming his siblings, nieces, and nephews to his home in Sarnia.
But what truly defined Tony was his unwavering love for his children. He was the kind of father who never missed an opportunity to express how much he loved them, whether in person or through the small, thoughtful ways he stayed connected. Even when life made it difficult, his love for his children—Deborah James Cummins, Siobhán James (John), and Andrew James (Emmalee)—was constant, and he made sure they knew it whenever he could. Tony also cherished his common-law partner, Chelsea Brintnell, always ensuring she felt the depth of his love and the strength of his commitment to building a life together.
On Sunday, August 18, 2024, at the age of 73, Tony’s vibrant life came to an end. While he’s probably up there calling us a bunch of wimps (he’d use a stronger word) for the tears we’ve already shed, his passing leaves a hole in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
Tony's life was a story well-lived, full of laughter, love, and the occasional bit of trouble. He made everyone feel special, whether in the kitchen, during classes, or at the pub.
He also had many passions, including his love of cooking, which fed both stomachs and souls, his veggie garden, his deep appreciation for music, and his unwavering support for Liverpool FC.
Tony's legacy is one of kindness, patience, and spirited troublemaking, which made him truly human in the best ways. He was a man who gave of himself freely, saw the best in others, and made the world a better place just by being in it.
Though he's no longer with us, Tony’s spirit—and his stories—will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, ensuring that we, too, will never walk alone.
Cremation has taken place as per his wishes, and Tony’s life will be celebrated at Ups N' Downs, 226 Front St. N., Sarnia, ON, on Saturday, August 31, at 3:00 p.m. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to Diabetes Canada (https://www.diabetes.ca/donate) or The Inn of the Good Shepherd (https://www.theinnsarnia.ca/donate/).
