Obituary of Anthony Vincent Mulea Sr.

Anthony Vincent Mulea, Sr., 78, was a courageous warrior who faced the battle of cancer with unwavering strength. His resilience and determination were an inspiration to all who knew him. Though his physical journey has come to an end, his spirit will forever shine brightly in our hearts. Anthony, a remarkable individual whose journey took him from the vibrant streets of New York City where he was born and raised to the sunny shores of Florida, and finally to his cherished home in Murfreesboro, TN. Anthony was a man of many talents and a true embodiment of hard work. In his teenage years, Anthony worked with his Uncle Danny in a toy factory (Smile Novelty toy company) making stuffed animals and toys. Then, as Anthony got a little older, he was introduced to the business of produce and worked alongside with his father and “Little Grandpa” (as they lovingly called his grandfather), Anthony eventually opened his own produce market. Anthony also embarked on the honorable task of delivering bread and even had his own bread route. His lifelong career came to a full circle when he entered back into the world of produce at Publix. From his early days crafting toys in the Smile Novelty toy company, to working alongside his father and grandfather in produce, to owning his own produce market, to bread route delivery, and then back into the produce business Anthony's dedication, knowledge, and hard work shone through. He was a true Publix legend who dedicated 18 years of his life to serving the community with passion and expertise. His love for working at the store was evident in his vast knowledge of produce, always ready to guide customers with a smile. He had a genuine gift for connecting with others. His love for conversation and genuine interest in people's lives made him a cherished friend to many. His ability to engage and uplift those around him will be remembered fondly. His laughter filled every room he entered and the life of every gathering. With his charm and charisma, he effortlessly turned strangers into friends and transformed any occasion into a lively celebration. His sharp wit, infectious humor, and charm, he brightened the lives of all who knew him. He was a man whose love for his family knew no bounds. Anthony’s fondness for spending quality time with his loved ones in these Italian festive gatherings is truly heartwarming where love and laughter intertwined. He cherished every moment spent with his family. He created lasting memories while fishing and boating together. His devotion and the joy he found in their company were a testament to the depth of his love. Anthony V. Mulea, Sr. is survived by his wife, Fran, his 4 children, Anthony II (Melissa), Carrie, Joseph (Linda) and Portia; his 6 grandchildren, Francesca (Bryce) Vallo, Anthony III, Allessandra (Justin) Ford, Gabrielle (Blake) Thrasher, Victoria (Long) Yang, and Joseph Mulea, Jr.; his 5 great-grandchildren, Landon, Charlie, Adelina, Arianna and Braden; his 2 sisters, Cira (Vinny) Cardella and Marie (Earl) Tuffs; and close family friends, Barbara Spivey, George Martinez, and Shianne Robertson. Anthony is preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Lucy Mulea. May his legacy serve as a reminder of the value of perseverance and the joy found in a life well-lived. Rest in eternal peace, our dear Anthony.