Anthony "Dorsey" Palermo

Anthony J. “Dorsey” “Tony” Palermo, 92, of Worcester died peacefully on Friday, July 15, 2022 in his home surrounded by his loving family. Anthony joins in heaven the love of his life Dorothy, who he missed dearly when she left his side on January 29, 2020, after 64 years of marriage.

Anthony leaves behind his two daughters, Donna M. Palermo and Sandra A. D’Elia, both of Worcester. He also leaves his brother, Armando Palermo and his wife Elina of Cape Cod and Florida, and two sisters, Theresa Mascia and Marie Testa, both of Shrewsbury. Anthony was the proud grandfather to Deena M. Particianone and her fiancé Jorge Santiago and their children Anthony and Ava Santiago; Peter J. D’Elia Jr. and his daughter Olivia D’Elia; and Kerri A. D’Elia and spouse Brian Lundberg, and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.  He was predeceased by his two sisters, Philomena “Phyllis” Maroney and Anna “Nina” Rosiello, and a brother, Eugene Palermo, who was killed in action during World War II.  Anthony was born in Worcester, the son of the late Italian immigrants Saverio and Carolina (Sabetta) Palermo, and he lived here all his life. He was educated in the Worcester Public School system and graduated from Commerce High. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran, having served in the Korean War. He then met Dorothy R. “Dottie” Pellegrino; they married in 1955 and began a life together of love, faith, dedication, and family. He worked to provide for his family at several area companies including Table Talk Pies and DiPierro Plastics before retiring from UMass Memorial Hospital.

Anthony was the backbone of his family and remained devoted to them throughout his life. He was a loving, caring, genuine man who enjoyed simple pleasures — spending time with family and friends, traveling, cooking at backyard barbeques, and hosting pool parties. His homemade pizza was always a favorite at gatherings.  Anthony was a longtime member of Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church, the Brown Square Civic Association, and the Jewish Community Fitness Center.  Among his interests, Anthony enjoyed watching sports, especially football, playing Texas Hold ’em, and taking trips to the casino. He also loved exploring new places and notable trips included a cruise to Alaska and family summers at Lake George. Whether vacationing or at home, family was everything to Anthony and his fondest moments were spent beside them.  Anthony was deeply loved by his family and by all those who knew him. He will truly be missed.  It was Anthony’s wish to thank his devoted family for their love and support. 

Anthony’s family would like to thank Kerri for her impeccable, loving, and devoted care for her grandfather. The family is deeply grateful to Dr. Jeremy Golding, JHC Hospice and nurse Marjorie for the compassion, support, and care provided to Anthony and his family.

Funeral services and burial for Anthony will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to The Jewish Healthcare Center Hospice, 629 Salisbury Street, Worcester. The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, is honored to assist the family with arrangements.