Anthony Holmes Johnson, affectionately known as "Captain Tony" to his wide circle of friends, departed this life at 76 in Istanbul, Turkey, far from his roots but ever true to his adventurous spirit. Born on November 11, 1948, in the quiet panhandle town of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, Tony’s journey began with humble origins that belied the extraordinary path he would carve. A graduate of Walton High School, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at just 17, serving as a 106 recoilless rifleman with the First Battalion, Seventh Marine Regiment during a grueling 13-month combat tour in Vietnam—a chapter that would shape him profoundly.
After his honorable discharge, Tony pursued higher education in Washington, D.C., earning a degree in Administration of Justice from George Washington University and American University. During this time, he served as a police officer and detective with the Metropolitan Police Department. Returning to Florida, he continued his law enforcement career as a Deputy Sheriff in Pinellas County before joining the United States Secret Service as a Special Agent in the Tampa Field Office, where he tackled counterfeiters with tenacity and skill.
Ever the scholar, Tony also attended Stetson College of Law in Saint Petersburg, graduating with a Juris Doctor degree. While in law school, he joined the Naval Reserve as an IS1, later earning a direct commission as an Ensign and rising to the rank of Captain—a title he wore with pride. His legal career blossomed as he served as a prosecutor in Florida’s Ninth Judicial Circuit for three years before being elected first as a County Judge and later a Circuit Judge, presiding in Kissimmee and Orlando. Known as a formidable yet fair jurist, Tony commanded respect in the courtroom, his professionalism tempered by a warmth that spilled into the corridors—where his hearty laugh and cheerful humming became a familiar refrain. He also shared his expertise as an adjunct Professor of Law at Barry Law School in Orlando and pursued postdoctoral studies in judicial philosophy at Harvard Law School.
Beyond the bench, Tony was a raconteur par excellence, spinning tales of a life lived boldly: his first flight as a wide-eyed boy, the makeshift scuba gear of his teenage years, sailing as a young man, and epic feats like summiting Mount Kilimanjaro on his 50th birthday, riding his Harley through the Alps, ice climbing in Zermatt, and investigating an airline hijacking in the jungles of Truk Lagoon. His beloved sailboat, Magic Dragon, carried him to her homeport at Treasure Island, a place that became his sanctuary. His Vietnam experiences found voice in his book No Safe Spaces, while his law enforcement stories were taking shape in a work-in-progress at the time of his passing.
A passionate historian and genealogist, Tony gifted the world a piece of living history through Flying Adventure LLC, his bi-plane business that let everyday folks soar in a WWII-era aircraft. In retirement, he settled in Treasure Island, Florida, where he flew, sailed, drove his Ferrari or MGB, wrote, and dreamed up his next escapade. Even after losing nearly everything in the 2024 hurricanes, Tony’s spirit remained unbroken. He launched the “Take Back Treasure Island” initiative, fiercely advocating for his community against the compounding burdens of natural disaster and bureaucratic inertia—a fight he waged with characteristic valor.
Tony lived by the military ethos, “If not me, then who?” Justice was his compass, and a life fully embraced was his tribute to the brothers-in-arms who never returned. He blazed an unconventional trail, leaving behind a legacy of astonishing breadth and depth. He is survived by his half-sister, cousins, his loyal dog Bosun, business partners, and a global tapestry of friends who loved him dearly.
Fair Winds and Following Seas, Captain Tony—your story echoes on.
After his honorable discharge, Tony pursued higher education in Washington, D.C., earning a degree in Administration of Justice from George Washington University and American University. During this time, he served as a police officer and detective with the Metropolitan Police Department. Returning to Florida, he continued his law enforcement career as a Deputy Sheriff in Pinellas County before joining the United States Secret Service as a Special Agent in the Tampa Field Office, where he tackled counterfeiters with tenacity and skill.
Ever the scholar, Tony also attended Stetson College of Law in Saint Petersburg, graduating with a Juris Doctor degree. While in law school, he joined the Naval Reserve as an IS1, later earning a direct commission as an Ensign and rising to the rank of Captain—a title he wore with pride. His legal career blossomed as he served as a prosecutor in Florida’s Ninth Judicial Circuit for three years before being elected first as a County Judge and later a Circuit Judge, presiding in Kissimmee and Orlando. Known as a formidable yet fair jurist, Tony commanded respect in the courtroom, his professionalism tempered by a warmth that spilled into the corridors—where his hearty laugh and cheerful humming became a familiar refrain. He also shared his expertise as an adjunct Professor of Law at Barry Law School in Orlando and pursued postdoctoral studies in judicial philosophy at Harvard Law School.
Beyond the bench, Tony was a raconteur par excellence, spinning tales of a life lived boldly: his first flight as a wide-eyed boy, the makeshift scuba gear of his teenage years, sailing as a young man, and epic feats like summiting Mount Kilimanjaro on his 50th birthday, riding his Harley through the Alps, ice climbing in Zermatt, and investigating an airline hijacking in the jungles of Truk Lagoon. His beloved sailboat, Magic Dragon, carried him to her homeport at Treasure Island, a place that became his sanctuary. His Vietnam experiences found voice in his book No Safe Spaces, while his law enforcement stories were taking shape in a work-in-progress at the time of his passing.
A passionate historian and genealogist, Tony gifted the world a piece of living history through Flying Adventure LLC, his bi-plane business that let everyday folks soar in a WWII-era aircraft. In retirement, he settled in Treasure Island, Florida, where he flew, sailed, drove his Ferrari or MGB, wrote, and dreamed up his next escapade. Even after losing nearly everything in the 2024 hurricanes, Tony’s spirit remained unbroken. He launched the “Take Back Treasure Island” initiative, fiercely advocating for his community against the compounding burdens of natural disaster and bureaucratic inertia—a fight he waged with characteristic valor.
Tony lived by the military ethos, “If not me, then who?” Justice was his compass, and a life fully embraced was his tribute to the brothers-in-arms who never returned. He blazed an unconventional trail, leaving behind a legacy of astonishing breadth and depth. He is survived by his half-sister, cousins, his loyal dog Bosun, business partners, and a global tapestry of friends who loved him dearly.
Fair Winds and Following Seas, Captain Tony—your story echoes on.
Al Lyon H&S, Charley Co.
Al Lyon, 82, of Chatham, passed away at his home on March 13, 2025, surrounded by friends who loved him. Always a patriot and always a U.S. Marine, he was a loyal and generous friend to those who knew him well. Alan Joel Lyon was born on May 2, 1942, in Charleston, SC to the late Bernard C. Lyon and the late Betty L. (Asenmacker) Lyon. His parents later divorced. Al grew up with his mother and stepfather, living in several cities in his youth. He went to high school in the St. Louis area. At 17, he dropped out of school. After talking to a recruiter and receiving permission and encouragement from his mother, Al joined the U.S. Marine Corps.
Al considered joining the Marines "the single most valuable and pivotal event of my life." He served from 1959 to 1963, including a tour at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and was honorably discharged. He went about his life for a few years, going to college part-time and working at a Sears store. In 1966, Al re-enlisted in the Marine Corps "to stand with my brothers at a time when our country was at war." He was quickly promoted to sergeant and assigned to H&S Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines.
Al shipped out with his unit to Vietnam in 1967 and was involved in several combat operations. His actions in one battle on May 4, 1968, resulted in him being awarded the Navy Commendation Medal with Valor. Al spent nearly two years in Vietnam. After returning to the U.S. in 1969, he received his second honorable discharge from the Marines.
Sad News from the Family of Jim Fulkerson C/1/7 65-66
Jimmie Harold "Jim" Fulkerson, Charley Co. 65-66.
Jimmy Fulkerson 83, of Jonesboro, passed from this life on Friday, September 13, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
A native of Bloomfield, Missouri, Jim was a 1959 graduate of Bloomfield High School and earned a basketball scholarship to Arkansas College in Batesville. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Arkansas College, presently Lyon College, in 1963 and entered the United States Marine Corps in September of 1963. Jim served 5 years and 3 months in the Marines and was a Vietnam veteran, serving 1965-1966 in Chu Lai, South Vietnam. While serving as a Second Lieutenant and Platoon commander, he was awarded the Bronze Star with Combat “V” for valor for his actions.
Jim was involved in highway construction with White River Materials in Batesville and Atlas Asphalt of Jonesboro for 55 years. He moved with his family from Batesville to Jonesboro in 1976 and was a member of First Methodist Church of Jonesboro where he served as a member of the staff/parish committee and the administrative board. Jim also served on the boards of Heritage Bank of Jonesboro and St. Bernard's Village.
In 2012, Jim was elected president of 1/7 Marine Reunion organization and also began volunteering at the Craighead County Veterans Office, assisting fellow veterans. He was a passionate fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, and avid supporter of the area high schools' sports programs particularly the Jonesboro Hurricane golf and dance teams where his children and grandchildren were active. Jim supported St. Jude's Children’s Hospital and the Helping Neighbors Food Pantry. He enjoyed Jonesboro Country Club (JCC) golf outings, NCAA Basketball, Arkansas Razorback sports, traveling and reading.
https://www.emersonfuneralhome.com/obituary/jimmie-fulkerson
Jimmy Fulkerson 83, of Jonesboro, passed from this life on Friday, September 13, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
A native of Bloomfield, Missouri, Jim was a 1959 graduate of Bloomfield High School and earned a basketball scholarship to Arkansas College in Batesville. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Arkansas College, presently Lyon College, in 1963 and entered the United States Marine Corps in September of 1963. Jim served 5 years and 3 months in the Marines and was a Vietnam veteran, serving 1965-1966 in Chu Lai, South Vietnam. While serving as a Second Lieutenant and Platoon commander, he was awarded the Bronze Star with Combat “V” for valor for his actions.
Jim was involved in highway construction with White River Materials in Batesville and Atlas Asphalt of Jonesboro for 55 years. He moved with his family from Batesville to Jonesboro in 1976 and was a member of First Methodist Church of Jonesboro where he served as a member of the staff/parish committee and the administrative board. Jim also served on the boards of Heritage Bank of Jonesboro and St. Bernard's Village.
In 2012, Jim was elected president of 1/7 Marine Reunion organization and also began volunteering at the Craighead County Veterans Office, assisting fellow veterans. He was a passionate fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, and avid supporter of the area high schools' sports programs particularly the Jonesboro Hurricane golf and dance teams where his children and grandchildren were active. Jim supported St. Jude's Children’s Hospital and the Helping Neighbors Food Pantry. He enjoyed Jonesboro Country Club (JCC) golf outings, NCAA Basketball, Arkansas Razorback sports, traveling and reading.
https://www.emersonfuneralhome.com/obituary/jimmie-fulkerson
Take a few moments to Celebrate Jake Gillis and remember all that he gave to the 1st Bn 7th Marines Vietnam Association. Best Raffle Boss Ever....Big voice, Big heart, Big smile....thanks for everything Jake. We will miss you Big time. Semper Fi.
Albert Paul Gillis (70), better known as Jake, passed away quietly surrounded by his loving family on March 26th, 2020. Born in Lowell but eventually moving to Boston, he was one of 13 children, known for giving his parents and siblings a run for their money. In 1967 at the age of 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps which would become the basis of a life dedicated to patriotism, loyalty, and selflessness in everything that he did. He served from 1967 to 1973, ending his military career as a drill instructor and a decorated war hero after being injured fighting in the Vietnam War. He took great pride in his time in the service, which carried through to all aspects of his life. While juggling work and family, Jake never forgot about his Corpsman and found the 1st Battalion 7th Marines Vietnam Association, donating his time and resources to ensure that his fellow Marines could remain connected and honor those who served with them. He continued giving throughout his life, to anyone that needed anything in any way that he could. He is survived by his wife Diane (Tedeschi) Gillis, and his daughter Jennifer Gillis.
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Ken Dohanish Delta 1/7
1st Bn 7th Marines Vietnam Association President 2004-2006
1st Bn 7th Marines Vietnam Association President 2004-2006
Obituary of Kenneth Dohanish
Kenneth Dohanish, 70, of Wanaque, formerly of Vernon, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2019 with his family by his side after a lengthy and hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born in Brooklyn, NY, Kenneth was the son of Charles and Pearl Dohanish. Ken grew up in Wallington, enlisting in the US Marine Corps immediately following high school. He proudly served in the US Marine Corps as a Radio Operator, Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines from 1967-1968 during the Vietnam War. For his heroic actions on 20 December 1967, Ken was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor. His selfless devotion to duty continued after the Marine Corps, retiring from the New Jersey State Police in 1998 after 27 years of dedicated service. An avid golfer, he and his lovely wife retired in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Ken was involved with several organizations including the VFW and the American Legion.
Kenneth is survived by his wife, Joan; his sons, Kenneth and Jason and his wife Lauren; his sister, Christine Coghlan and her husband Victor; and his granddaughter, Sienna.
Visiting hours will be held from 4 to 8 pm Wednesday, October 23 at the M. John Scanlan Funeral Home, Pompton Plains. A funeral Mass will be held Thursday, October 24 at 10 am at St. Francis RC Church, Haskell. Interment will follow at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown, PA.
Moose Ferran
FROM KEN DOHANISH:
I flew out to California on August 12 to attend Tom "Moose" Ferran's wake and
funeral. I spoke to his wife, Janet, for a a period of time and offered her
my condolences and that of our association. 1/7 association was represented,
also, by Gen. Mike Neil and Sel Wong. It was a very sad event for me as Moose
and I were good friends, and I will definitely miss him at our reunions. The
Marine Corps did an outstanding job at the burial service in the folding and
presentation of the flag and the gun salute. We lost another outstanding
Marine and comrade.
Semper Fi, Ken
I flew out to California on August 12 to attend Tom "Moose" Ferran's wake and
funeral. I spoke to his wife, Janet, for a a period of time and offered her
my condolences and that of our association. 1/7 association was represented,
also, by Gen. Mike Neil and Sel Wong. It was a very sad event for me as Moose
and I were good friends, and I will definitely miss him at our reunions. The
Marine Corps did an outstanding job at the burial service in the folding and
presentation of the flag and the gun salute. We lost another outstanding
Marine and comrade.
Semper Fi, Ken
Robert S. Ynacay
James P. Kelly
Click to enlarge photo.
Dear Friends,
It is with the heaviest of hearts that I write to you tonight. My beloved Dad passed away quietly this morning at home. He went so quickly, that it caught us all by surprise. We had all spent time with him as late as yesterday evening, and he went without warning this morning. We are in shock and our hearts are broken; we just weren't ready to say goodbye, although perhaps no one ever is.
Your recent messages to him (and my mother) were each shared, and I know it warmed his heart to hear from you. Thank you for taking the time to reach out and remember him. Had circumstances been different over the last 25 years, I do not doubt that you would have had many opportunities to not only talk of old times, but to share with him more about how your lives have transpired since your days together in Chu Li. He was so proud of each of you and blessed to have you in his life.
We are still in the process of making arrangements for Dad, but have a local service scheduled for 10:00 a.m.Saturday, September 26th at Eternal Hills in Oceanside, CA with his internment shortly thereafter near his hometown of Watersmeet, MI.
I will forward additional details as final plans are made.
I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and love.
Warm regards,
Mary Kelly Maag
It is with the heaviest of hearts that I write to you tonight. My beloved Dad passed away quietly this morning at home. He went so quickly, that it caught us all by surprise. We had all spent time with him as late as yesterday evening, and he went without warning this morning. We are in shock and our hearts are broken; we just weren't ready to say goodbye, although perhaps no one ever is.
Your recent messages to him (and my mother) were each shared, and I know it warmed his heart to hear from you. Thank you for taking the time to reach out and remember him. Had circumstances been different over the last 25 years, I do not doubt that you would have had many opportunities to not only talk of old times, but to share with him more about how your lives have transpired since your days together in Chu Li. He was so proud of each of you and blessed to have you in his life.
We are still in the process of making arrangements for Dad, but have a local service scheduled for 10:00 a.m.Saturday, September 26th at Eternal Hills in Oceanside, CA with his internment shortly thereafter near his hometown of Watersmeet, MI.
I will forward additional details as final plans are made.
I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and love.
Warm regards,
Mary Kelly Maag
Curtis Wilkerson
Entered into rest Monday, January 19, 2015, Curtis Wilkerson, 66, husband to Mary Newsom Wilkerson. Curtis served in the United States Marine Corps from 1967 to 1970 in 1st Battalion/7th Marines Charlie Company as Sergeant E-5 and Weapons Specialist and served two tours in Vietnam.
Jerry Mensinger
February 17, 1948 - February 09, 2015
February 17, 1948 - February 09, 2015
DENNIS C. ANDERSON
CHARLEY CO.
Dennis C. Anderson, 68 of Bristol passed away peacefully at home Thursday evening April 28, 2016 with his beloved wife, Karen by his side. Dennis was born in Manchester, CT on September 30, 1947 son of the late Russell Anderson and Julia Mae (Shaw) Anderson. Dennis was a proud U.S. Marine veteran serving two tours beginning in 1965 during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant in 1970. He was attached to the 1st BN 7th Marines who were known as "Suicide Charlie".