Anthony J. (“Tony,” “Red”) Santacroce, 85, of Wallingford, died peacefully at his home on Feb. 20, with his family by his side.  He was born in New Haven on May 30, 1926, son of the late John and Filomena Santacroce.  He was a successful businessman, owning businesses in Connecticut and Alabama.  He was one of the great ones -- a gem, a caring and thoughtful person who helped countless people in Connecticut , Alabama, and Miami Beach, Florida, where he had resided for 20 years prior to returning to Connecticut in 1999.  His philanthropy and kindness touched many people who mourn his loss.  His family will never forget their loving brother, uncle, great-uncle, and friend.  He will always be remembered for his devoted love of and support for his sister and her children.

His family extends a special thank you to his caregivers Judy, Jamilla, Theresa, and Susana for providing loving wonderful care and support throughout his illness.

He is survived by his devoted sister, Rose Geraci of North Haven; a nephew, Larry Geraci of Northford; a niece, Lori-Anne Murgo and her husband Rick of North Haven; and a great-nephew, Carl Anthony Murgo.  He was predeceased by a sister, Vincenza Santacroce, and two dear friends, Ben May and Ben May, Jr., with whom he had worked for many years.

His funeral procession will leave the North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Ave., North Haven, on Friday, Feb. 24, at 10:30 a.m.  A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St. Frances Cabrini Church, North Haven, at 11 a.m., followed by burial in All Saints Cemetery.  Visiting hours will be Thursday, Feb. 23, from 5 to 8 p.m.  Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 2911 Dixwell Ave., Hamden, CT  06518, or to the Ben May Institute for Cancer Research at the University of Chicago, c/o Kenneth Niemeyer, Regions Bank, P.O. Box 2527, Mobile, AL  36622.  www.northhavenfuneral.com.