Antonio John Faga, Esq.

Mr. Antonio John Faga, Esq. age 67, of Naples, FL, and formerly of Utica, passed away at his home in Florida, on Wednesday, October 3, 2018.

He was born in Utica, NY on July 7, 1951 son of the late Louis & Louise (Aliasso) Faga. He was raised and educated in local schools, received his B.A. from Union College and his Juris Doctorate from St. John's University School of Law. Tony began his career in Utica and was a prominent attorney representing many prestigious organizations. He continued a dual practice in Utica & Naples where the Faga Law Group will continue his legacy.

As an attorney of 40 years, Tony was very proud to say his career had come full circle. While his recent high profile defense of Mark Sievers saw him interviewed by 48 Hours and Nancy Grace, his career took off almost as soon as he was admitted to the bar in 1978 as a defense attorney in the Tri-Willow Nursery Murders; defending Mark David Chapman's right to die during his hunger strike in Attica Prison; and working alongside F. Lee Bailey before the United States Supreme Court. These and other cases in the highest courts of both New York and Florida highlight a legal career befitting his nickname"Legal Eagle". Tony's foremost trademark was adorning a fresh lapel carnation daily.

On August 8, 1992, he married the former Kimberly Carolan. The couple shared a loving 26 year union.  Among Tony's favorite pastimes were playing golf at Olde Florida Golf Club, cooking, and making wine with friends.

He is survived by his loving wife Kimberly; his children, two sons from his previous marriage, Louis (Mamie Savage) Faga and their daughter Saoirse Jane and  Gianmarco Faga all of Utica, David (Heather Durham) Carolan and their children Teagan, Hudson and Saylor of Raleigh, NC; Kristin Carolan and daughter Ava Marie of Naples; mother-in-law Tina Carolan whose help & support was invaluable, brother-in-law Richard (Christine) Carolan, nieces Alana & Victoria and Godmother Dr. Angela Elefante.

We would like to thank our extended family who walked this journey with us, his numerous cousins of the Rocci, Polito, Tuttle and Marasco families; special friends  Therese Lottermoser, Dyan & Anthony Sardelli, Chuck Sadallah, Joseph (Buddy) and Patti Gigliotti and Lou Tehan. He was predeceased by his cousin and dear friend Joseph C. Talarico.

Visitation will be held on Friday (tomorrow) from 4-7 pm at The Scala & Roefaro Funeral Home Inc. 1122 Culver Ave. Prayer services will be held at the conclusion of visitation at 7:00 pm in the funeral home with the Rev. Joseph Salerno officiating.