Anthony Carter Gianessi was a bright light in the lives of his loved ones.
Born in Morgantown on Aug. 13, 2014, Anthony’s vibrant spirit and contagious smile brought joy to every day. Sadly, he passed away at WVU Medicine Children’s on June 8, 2024, leaving a legacy of warmth and cherished memories.
Anthony was the beloved son of mother, Mary Elizabeth Selby and her partner, Josh Dalton, of Morgantown, and father, David André Gianessi II, of Weirton. His family’s love for him was immense, including Savannah and Christian Dalton and his maternal grandparents, Dr. Joseph and Joan Selby, of Morgantown; paternal grandparents, David Gianessi, of Weirton, and Edythe Gianessi, of North Carolina; and maternal great-grandmother, Mary Twigg, of Cumberland, Md. Anthony was a source of endless happiness for his aunts and uncles, William Selby and fiancée, Klair Siciliano, of Newport, R.I., Thomas Selby, of Pittsburgh, Donald Gianessi, of Illinois, Samson Gianessi, serving in the U.S. Army in Germany, Sharon Gianessi, of S.C., Seth Gianessi of N.Y., and Dazja Gianessi, of HI. His numerous playmates and friends will forever feel his absence.
Anthony was a student at Mountainview Elementary, where he was already known for his awesome shoes and infectious laugh. His next educational adventure would have been starting fourth grade this fall.
Anthony’s interests captured the essence of childhood wonder and joy. His laugh was a sound nobody could forget, and his love for Taylor Swift’s music was well-known. He had a natural exuberance, whether he was playing, swinging or swimming. He was happiest with other children, his heart as wide and open as his embrace. Anthony shared his love for video games with his dad, finding comfort and excitement in their digital worlds.
While Anthony’s dance moves were uniquely his own, they were a dance of strength and vitality. He enjoyed t-ball and various other sports activities thanks to the Stepping Stones organization, and though he sometimes playfully fabricated tantrums or sleep to communicate his dislikes, he did so with an endearing flair. Anthony was also skilled with puzzles and found delight in the magic of pop-up books. His need for speed was a testament to his desire to experience life fully, and his love for snuggles and attention was a testament to his deep connections with those around him.
Anthony lived his life with an intensity that was both inspiring and moving. While his time with us was far too short, the joy he brought to the world and the lessons he taught us will not be forgotten. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those he touched, reminding us all to embrace life with the same enthusiasm and love that Anthony did every single day.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the teachers, aides and staff of Mountainview Elementary for the special care, inclusion and love Anthony received during his time in school. Additionally, the family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, therapists and staff at WVU Children’s Hospital and WVU Neuro-Development Center who helped care for Anthony throughout his life and especially during his final days
Family and friends will gather at the Fred Jenkins Funeral Home from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Friday, June 14, and again from 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 15, until the time of services at 11 a.m. with Pastor Frank Harris officiating. Anthony will rest at the East Oak Grove Cemetery.
Flowers will be graciously accepted, or please consider a donation in memory of Anthony to SteppingStones, 400 Mylan Park Lane Morgantown, WV 26501. Additionally, donations can be made via Venmo or PayPal.
Venmo:
@SteppingStoneswv
Paypal:
PayPal-abilitywv@gmail.com
Condolences:
www.fredjenkinsfuneralhome.com
