Anthony "Tony" P. Festa

Anthony “Tony” Festa 78, of Ortley Beach, NJ passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, on Monday June 30, 2025. Born in Newark, NJ he lived in Belleville, NJ before moving to Ortley Beach in 1976 and later to Toms River. In his younger days Tony built race car motors for Rotondas Speed Shop in Bloomfield and he loved drag racing. In 1976, along with his wife Marie, he founded and operated the Sand Dollar Pancake House in Ortley Beach, NJ and later with his son, moved the business to Lavallette, NJ.

The Sand Dollar continues to be a true ‘family business’ where Tony's legacy will live on not only with the food, but with the employees and customers who have become extended family. Tony was a devoted Yankee fan whose passion for the team was evident to everyone who knew him. He held a special admiration for the team's captain, 'Donnie Baseball,' Don Mattingly, whose career was an inspiration to him. The true light of Tony’s life were his granddaughters. They were his pride and joy and he loved spending time with them. Tony always had a hug, smile and a kind word to offer and his gentle spirit will be missed by everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Marie (Cerami). Two children Anthony Jr and his wife Jessica of Toms River, NJ and Jennifer Festa of Toms River, NJ. Two sisters Grace Vara and Camille Angileri and three Grandchildren Keira, Lia and Codi. Family and friends are invited to attend the viewing for Tony on Monday July 7, 2025 from 3pm to 7pm at the Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals 706 Grand Central Ave. Lavallette, NJ. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Tuesday 10am at Padre Pio RC Church in Lavallette with burial to follow at St Joseph Cemetery in Toms River. In lieu of flowers consider donating to either: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association www.4hcm.orgHypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association Or Mattingly Charities www.mattinglycharities.org Condolences may be sent to www.ryanfuneralhome.com

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