Anthony "Tony" Thigpen

Anthony “Tony” Thigpen, 55 years of age, and a resident of Lagrange, passed away Saturday, April 15, 2023 following a one year battle with cancer.

He is survived by his wife, Erica Thigpen (nee: Esser); his children, Devin Walker-Thigpen,  Peyton Thigpen; his siblings, Ronnie (Joyce) Thigpen, Nancy Gore and Kathy Roe (Larry) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Tony was born May 23, 1967 in Warren, Ohio.  The journey he was on led him to Elyria, before moving to Lagrange where resided until his passing.

Tony was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous. He struggled for many years to achieve sobriety, which he achieved and maintained for over eight years of uninterrupted sobriety.  Many have helped him, and in turn Tony gave back by serving and helping others.  Tony and his friend Rick started Keystone Recovery in Elyria, a place of hope where men could achieve their sobriety.  Their testimonies of sobriety were inspiring and gave others the courage they needed to have victory as well.  Tony had a big smile and an infectious laugh and he showed others how to have fun. In his spare time, Tony loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle..  As a boy one of Tony’s best memories was enjoying riding in his dad’s Cadillac in the middle seat as well as hanging out at his family's tavern, keeping his dad company while drinking shots of beer.

Tony cherished his family.  He always had things taken care of; dinner ready, the kids off to school, or sporting activities.  Tony’s love for his wife was like no other. His daughter Peyton carries his image in her blue eyes and quick wit. He became a father to Devin. Cheered him on, always encouraging him.  They were best friends. His love for his son Devin, was priceless.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, David, Mark, Robin and Ray Lee; his parents, Ray and Betty Thigpen (nee: Keeler); and his niece Kathy Ann Thigpen and nephew Mark David Thigpen.

Friends may call Sunday, April 23, 2023, from 2-4 and 5-7 p.m. at the Hempel Funeral Home, Amherst.   Funeral services will be held on Monday, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.  Rebroadcasting of services will be available at www.hempelfuneralhome.com . Burial will follow at Brookdale Cemetery, Elyria, Ohio.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, a memorial gift be made to the family for the future education of his children.

For those unable to attend please visit the funeral home's website to share a memory and sign the guest register, www.hempelfuneralhome.com.

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