Anthony Soto

Anthony “Tony” Soto, born in New York City to William Soto and Carmen Alameda Soto, passed away leaving behind a lifetime of memories, stories, music, laughter, and love that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

Tony was a proud Puerto Rican man who carried his culture with joy and pride throughout his life. He loved music, especially salsa, and was a true Salsero at heart. He enjoyed attending Old Timers events, celebrating with his community, and never missed an opportunity to proudly represent his culture at the Puerto Rican Festival. Full of personality and life, Tony embraced the world in his own unique way and left a lasting impression everywhere he went.

Tony was also a proud veteran who honorably served in the United States Marine Corps from March 1970 to April 1974. He served as a Sergeant, Rifleman, and Small Arms Proof Director. His service reflected his strength, discipline, and dedication, qualities that remained part of him throughout his life.

In his younger years, Tony loved stickball and proudly played on teams including the Challengers and the Clean Machine. He later owned a social club called “The Whispers,” which held its final dance in July of 1986, creating memories and community for so many people. It was there that he met Susan, the mother of his daughter Alisha. Even after their separation, Susan remained a trusted confidant and lifelong friend to Tony throughout the years. He eventually became a printing press operator with Patane Press, where he continued his hardworking spirit.

Tony had a deeply creative soul. He loved art, painting, and creating handmade chess pieces from model clay, carefully painting each one with pride and imagination. He loved playing chess and could spend hours reminiscing while looking through old photo albums, sharing stories of family, friends, and cherished memories from years gone by.

Above all, Tony loved his family dearly. He is survived by his loving children, Paul Soto, Angelique Soto, and Alisha Soto, as well as his stepdaughter, Natalie. Though Tony struggled with addiction throughout parts of his life, those who loved him also knew his warmth, creativity, humor, and heart.

To his daughter Alisha, he gave gifts far beyond words. He taught her how to ride a bike, drive a car, appreciate art, and embrace creativity. Some of their most treasured memories were the weekends they spent together at Metropolitan Museum of Art, wandering through the galleries with the hopeful dream that one day they would see the entire museum together. Those moments became lasting reminders of his curiosity, love, and desire to share beauty with the people he cared about most.

Tony will be remembered for his spirit, his stories, his music, his creativity, and the love he carried for his family and culture. Though imperfect, he was deeply human, deeply loved, and impossible to forget. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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