Anthony Proia Jr.

Anthony Albert Proia, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Sunday September 15th, 2024, in Saint Johnsbury, Vermont surrounded by his family in the comfort of his home. Born in East Hartford, Connecticut on April 30th, 1951, to Anthony Sr. and Claire Proia who have since passed away. Anthony leaves behind a legacy of hard work and humor that will forever be cherished by those whose lives he touched. 

Anthony was the devoted husband of Judith Proia, with whom he shared many years of joy and companionship. Together, for 50 years, they owned and ran Anthony's Diner alongside their daughter, Danielle Gray. The diner is more than a business; it is an institution of the Northeast Kingdom. Voted best burger in the state of Vermont. The diner was his life, and it was there that Anthony found immense pleasure in sitting at the horseshoe counter chatting with regulars over the Diner’s signature strong coffee and his freshly made donuts, his favorite. 

At home, Anthony found solace in spending quality time with his family and his beloved dog, Henry. His presence brought an irreplaceable sense of groundedness to those around him as he exuded his unique humor, love of cards, and telling stories of growing up in Saint Johnsbury with his grandmother, Maria. 

In addition to his wife, Judith, and daughter, Danielle Gray, Anthony is survived by his son, Jesse Lord-Proia and son-in-law, Brett Lord-Proia, his cherished granddaughter, Clare Olivia Gray along with his siblings Michael Proia, Roy Proia, Mary Proia and John Proia- all of whom feel his loss greatly.

Anthony’s family invite you to join them for his funeral Mass at St. John the Evangelist Church on 49 Winter St., St Johnsbury, VT 05819 at 10am on Friday, September 20, 2024, in celebrating Tony’s life, the legacy of Anthony’s Diner and the imprint on the Saint Johnsbury community he leaves behind. Coffee and refreshments will be provided after the church services from 11am to 12pm followed by a private family burial. 

Anthony’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Caledonia Home Health Care & Hospice for making the last weeks of Anthony’s life as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. 

Memories and condolences can be shared online at CaledoniaLifeServices.com. Guibord-Pearsons & Sayles Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.