Anthony "Tony" Jimenez

Anthony “Tony” Pasquale Jimenez, a devoted public servant, decorated veteran, and beloved husband and father, lived a life defined by courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to others.

Born on July 12, 1951, Tony was raised in New York City as the middle child of Micheline and Philip Jimenez. He grew up in the city’s projects alongside his siblings, where life was not always easy—but where strength, grit, and family were everything. His father, a New York City police officer, instilled in him a deep respect for service, discipline, and standing up for others—values that would shape the course of his life.

At a young age, Tony answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army and serving as a Sergeant with the 1st Cavalry Division during the Vietnam War. He served in both Vietnam and Cambodia, where he was wounded in combat and awarded the Purple Heart, along with numerous commendations recognizing his bravery and valor, including the Combat Infantryman Badge, Air Medal, and Army Commendation Medal for Valor. These honors reflected the courage and sacrifice that defined his service.

After returning home, Tony continued his dedication to saving lives in every way he could. He worked for many years as a surgical technician, where fate would quietly shape the most important part of his life—his meeting with his wife, Kathy. Their story began in the hospital, where their paths crossed, and grew into a lasting partnership built on love, strength, and shared resilience. Together, they built a life and a family that would remain at the center of everything Tony did.

Tony went on to become a leader in emergency medical services in Glen Cove, New York, serving as EMS Chief and dedicating decades to protecting his community. His impact extended beyond emergency response—he helped champion the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in courthouses. After advocating for their placement in a Nassau County courtroom, a life was saved when a juror suffered cardiac arrest. That moment led to a broader initiative, resulting in AEDs being installed in courthouses across New York State—an enduring legacy that continues to save lives. Over the course of his career, he not only saved lives in emergencies but also helped bring new life into the world, delivering babies when every second mattered.

When the nation was forever changed by the September 11 attacks, Tony once again stepped forward without hesitation. In the immediate aftermath, Glen Cove opened its ferry to help transport volunteers into New York City and assist with evacuation and recovery efforts. Tony spent weeks at Ground Zero, working in the bucket brigade—carefully sifting through debris piece by piece in search of the missing. Alongside fellow responders and search dogs, he carried out work that required strength, patience, and a level of courage few are ever asked to give. It was work that stayed with him, not just as a memory, but as part of who he was.

Tony also built a distinguished career within the New York State court system, serving as a court officer and later as Deputy Commissioner of Jurors for Nassau County. During his time in public service, he was recognized with multiple commendations, including life-saving awards and honors for heroism, reflecting his continued commitment to protecting others.

His commitment to public service extended into civic life as well. Tony served for many years on the Glen Cove City Council, helping guide and support the community he loved. Later, as Director of Veterans Affairs, he became a passionate advocate for fellow veterans, working tirelessly to ensure they received the benefits, care, and recognition they deserved.

Like many Vietnam veterans, he also faced lasting health challenges linked to Agent Orange exposure. In a profound act of love, his niece Julie donated a kidney that would ultimately save his life, reflecting the strength and closeness of the family he cherished.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy; his children, Christopher and Nina; his grandchild, Kurt; and a loving extended family.

Anthony “Tony” Pasquale Jimenez leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in titles alone. From the battlefields of Vietnam to the recovery efforts at Ground Zero, from hospital rooms to courtrooms, and from city service to the lives he helped save—and begin—he was a man who showed up, again and again, when it mattered most.

He came from humble beginnings, built a life of purpose, and made a lasting difference in the lives of others.

Viewing will be held at Whitting Funeral Home 300 Glen Cove Ave. Glen Head, NY 11545, Wednesday and Thursday from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Funeral Mass to be held at St. John’s of Lattingtown, Friday 10am. Burial to follow at Locust Valley Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to celebrate Anthony’s life by contributing to the organizations closest to his heart—the Diabetes Research Institute, NOSH, Paws for War, the Glen Cove SAGE Foundation, S.A.F.E. Inc., the Glen Cove Youth Bureau, and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum—continuing the compassion and service he gave so freely.

Donation Links:

Youth Bureau - Supporting Programs for Glen Cove Youth

NOSH - Food & Basic Goods and Services

S.A.F.E. - Alcohol and Substance Abuse

Diabetes Research Institute

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Glen Cove SAGE Foundation