The Hellenic News of America joins the Greek-American community in mourning the passing of Anthony J. Vraim, a longtime friend of our publication, dedicated funeral director, and proud Greek-American whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
For the Hellenic News of America, Tony’s passing is especially meaningful. Vraim Funeral Home has been part of our HNA family for more than three decades, supporting our mission to amplify the voices of Greek-Americans and preserve our heritage, culture, and traditions. Throughout those years, Tony remained a steadfast supporter of the institutions that strengthen and unite our community.
Anthony J. Vraim, born Anthony J. Vraimopoulos, fell asleep in the Lord on May 20, 2026, at the age of 77 at his home in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Born on July 11, 1948, to the late John and Christina Matsios Vraimopoulos, Tony was deeply proud of both his Greek heritage and his American identity. He took great care to ensure that his children understood their family’s history, from ancestors who fought for freedom in Greece to the entrepreneurial journey that brought the Vraim family to the United States and led them to establish successful businesses throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Tony spent his early years in Philadelphia before his family relocated to Upper Darby, where his father established what would become the longtime home of Vraim Funeral Home at 66 South State Road. It was there that Tony would leave an enduring mark on countless families and become a trusted presence within both the Greek-American community and the broader Delaware Valley.
His commitment to serving others began early. A graduate of Upper Darby High School, Tony excelled as a wrestler, gymnast, and choir member before continuing his education at Temple University and later the American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service in New York. After joining his father in the family business, he went on to serve as Delaware County Coroner before officially assuming leadership of Vraim Funeral Home in 1979.
For the next four decades, he devoted himself to serving families with compassion, dignity, and professionalism. His work was never simply a profession, it was a calling. Generations of families turned to Tony during some of life’s most difficult moments, knowing they would be met with kindness, understanding, and genuine care.
Tony possessed an extraordinary curiosity and a lifelong love of learning. Fluent in multiple languages and deeply knowledgeable on a wide range of subjects, he delighted in sharing what he knew with others. Whether speaking in local schools, volunteering as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader, or mentoring young people in his community, he believed education was one of life’s greatest gifts.
His grandchildren especially benefited from that passion. They knew that every question would be met with an answer, a story, or a lesson worth remembering.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tony embraced life with enthusiasm and adventure. His interests included scuba diving, skiing, surfing, sailing, camping, classical music, opera, theater, world travel, and riding his beloved BMW motorcycle. He continuously sought opportunities to share those passions with his sons, creating memories and experiences that would remain with them for a lifetime.
The theater became another important chapter in his life. It was there that he met his beloved wife, Jennifer Smith. Together they shared a love for the performing arts, supporting one another’s productions and eventually helping establish a community theater group in Brigantine, New Jersey. In retirement, they settled in Atlantic City, where they enjoyed traveling the world and fulfilling Tony’s dream of living by the water.
Faith remained a cornerstone of Tony’s life. A devoted member of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Upper Darby, he served his parish in numerous leadership roles, including Parish Council President and Choir Director. He was also a proud member and past president of AHEPA, dedicating countless hours to strengthening the Greek-American community and preserving Hellenic values for future generations.
His dedication to service extended beyond the church and community organizations. Tony earned his Master Captain Unlimited License as a Merchant Mariner and was a strong supporter of numerous veterans’ organizations, reflecting his deep patriotism and appreciation for those who served our nation.
Above all, Tony was devoted to his family. He believed in leading by example and taught his children and grandchildren the values of integrity, generosity, compassion, and service to others. Through his actions, he demonstrated that a meaningful life is measured not by personal achievement, but by the difference one makes in the lives of others.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer Smith; his sons, Michael (Jennifer) and David (Amber); his cherished grandchildren, Gabriella, Anthony John “AJ,” Lila, and Emily; his sister, Connie (Ken) Matty; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He is also survived by Albert (Lori) LaBricciosa, his longtime colleague and friend, who worked alongside him for more than thirty years and whom Tony considered a brother.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Thursday, May 28, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 229 Powell Lane, Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. Members of the funeral profession are invited to a special visitation from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
A second visitation will be held on Friday, May 29, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the church, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.
A burial at sea will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Tony’s name to one’s church or charitable organization of choice. They also encourage acts of kindness and assistance to others in his memory, a fitting tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to helping those around him.
As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life devoted to faith, family, community, and service. His legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched, the institutions he strengthened, and the values he passed onto future generations.
May his memory be eternal.
Αἰωνία η Μνήμη.
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