Anthony Aiello

Anthony Dominic Aiello Sr., 88, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away at 12:31 a.m. on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

He was born on June 14, 1938, in St. Louis, Missouri, a son of the late Salvator Mandell "Sam" and Lucille (Busalacki) Aiello. He married the love of his life, Judy Marie (Barton) Aiello, on October 25, 1958, at the courthouse in East St. Louis. She preceded him in death on April 17, 2026, after sharing 68 years of love and cherished memories together.

Anthony was raised in St. Louis and fondly remembered his younger years helping the Busalacki family at their vegetable, fruit, and nut stand at Union Market. During his youth, he was also a Golden Gloves boxer in St. Louis. He retired from Terminal Railroad in Madison, Illinois, after 35 years of dedicated service as a switchman. He also spent more than 20 years training thoroughbred racehorses at Fairmount Park, where he developed lifelong friendships and a deep passion for horse racing.

A faithful member of City Temple in Granite City, Anthony served his church for many years as both a deacon and a member of the church board. He especially enjoyed volunteering with the City Temple Food Pantry and treasured the fellowship of his church family.

Anthony loved all sports and especially enjoyed coaching his grandchildren's softball teams. He was also a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan. Above all, he cherished his family, and the love, laughter, and countless memories they shared together will be treasured forever.

He is survived by his three children, Anthony (Chonda) Aiello Jr. of Highland, Tammy D. (John) Pratt of Red Bud, and Tracy L. (Butch) Dill of Collinsville; eight grandchildren, Danyale Pratt, John Pratt Jr., Anthony Hartline, Jessica Winters, Jodi Aiello, Ashley Hentis, Whitney Hankins, and Samantha Mendoza; eighteen great-grandchildren; a sister, Mary Louise (Joseph) Jennings of Wildwood, Missouri; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, his horse racing family, his church family, and many dear friends.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be held at City Temple, 4751 Maryville Road in Granite City, on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 noon, with Pastor Sam Hart officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.

Memorials may be made to City Temple. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.

Obit Provided By:
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home