April 28, 2025, 85, Goldsboro —
Antonio Rodriguez Palaganas, 85, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Monday, April 28, 2025, at UNC Health Wayne in Goldsboro, North Carolina.
Born in New York, NY, on October 3, 1939, Tony was the beloved son of the late Antonio R. Palaganas and Eva Rodriguez Palaganas. He was preceded in death by brothers, Ignacio Manuel Palaganas and Jose de Jesus Palaganas, and his two cherished sons, Benjamin R. “Buddy” Palaganas and Kevin Wayne Palaganas, whose memories remained close to his heart throughout his life.
Tony earned his associate degree in journalism from Syracuse University, a milestone he treasured deeply. His career was marked by dedication and integrity, first as a valued employee at Natvar in Clayton, and later until his retirement from Digital Copiers in Rocky Mount.
A passionate lover of baseball, Tony played in the minor leagues as a young man and remained devoted to the game throughout his life. He was a long-time contributor to the work of Herman Park and Recreation, where he served not only as a player in the Senior Games but, more meaningfully to him, as a respected umpire who gave back to the sport he loved.
Tony embraced life fully, finding joy in snow skiing, golf, and photography—his talent behind the lens earning him the prestigious Kodak award. His faith was steadfast, and he was a devoted member of Rosewood First Baptist Church, where he found spiritual strength and fellowship.
Family was the cornerstone of Tony’s life. Despite the deep sorrow of losing two sons, he remained a source of strength for his loved ones, leaning on faith and family to navigate life’s trials. His enduring love for his wife of 44 years, Mary Jane Palaganas, was a beacon of commitment and partnership.
Tony also leaves behind a loving family who will carry his legacy forward: daughters Patricia Kennedy and husband, Jimmy, of Watkinsville, GA, and Dominica Humphries and husband, Donald, of Cumming, GA; sons Michael Scott and wife, Karen, of Mebane, and Austin Scott and wife, Gena, of Goldsboro; grandchildren Capt. Hugh Jamison Kennedy and wife, Taylor, Craig Anthony Kennedy, and Hope Alia Palaganas; and step-grandchildren Ivey Scott, Avery Scott, Julia Scott, Matthew Scott, and Kaylen Scott. He is also survived by his dear sisters, Guadalupe Palaganas Gonzales, Carmen Maria Palaganas, and Maria Palaganas.
A service to celebrate Tony’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Rosewood First Baptist Church, with Pastor Tim Lipp officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the sanctuary. Interment will follow at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tony’s memory to Alzheimer’s NC, Inc., 5171 Glenwood Avenue #101, Raleigh, NC 27612.
Arrangements are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
