Firefighter Anthony R. Iraci passed away on March 26, 2020, at age 48, due to September 11-related illness.

He was born on Staten Island on June 14, 1971, and lived there his entire life. He was the youngest sibling of five children. He graduated from St. Peter’s High School in Staten Island, Class of 1989. He attended the College of Staten Island, where he played baseball. Shortly after that, Anthony moved on to become a New York City police officer and served as a narcotics detective for ten years.

After months of recovery, he switched over to the New York City Fire Department, which had been his goal since he was a young boy. He loved working at his firehouse, Engine 155/Ladder 78 in Staten Island (The Hot Corner). In 1991, he married his soulmate, Melissa Iraci, and they had two children together. Anthony devoted a lot of his time to his parish, St. Rita‘s Roman Catholic Church. He was the sports director of St. Rita’s Church and helped with several functions and fundraisers. He volunteered with Mid Island Little League and the Titans travel baseball team. He was also involved in St. Rita’s grammar school, Notre Dame Academy, and St.Peter’s High School, where his children attended. He enjoyed watching his children play sports and spending time with his dogs. He was a big New York Yankees fan and loved traveling to Disney World with his family.

Anthony was always a phone call away to assist anyone. This was reflected in who he served as a community member and as a dedicated husband, father, son, brother, friend, and coach. His passion and love for his country was nothing short of admirable. He was a role model to so many who interacted with him. He always had a big smile on his face and a heart of gold.