Edmund Anthony Buzzetti, lovingly known as Tony, age 87, passed away on January 12, 2026, in Columbia, South Carolina, just one day before his 88th birthday. Born on January 13, 1938, in Missoula, Montana, Tony was the son of Edward J. Buzzetti and Kathryn Kelley Buzzetti, who instilled in him the values of family, integrity, and service that guided his life.

Tony shared a lifelong love with his beloved wife, Lois Sylvestre Buzzetti. Married on August 24,1963, their marriage was a partnership built on devotion, respect, laughter, and shared adventure. Together, they created a home filled with warmth and unconditional love.

Tony was a devoted father to his son, Edmund Anthony Buzzetti, and daughter-in-law, Karen Fogarty Buzzetti, and a proud grandfather to Kaelyn Frances Buzzetti and Kennedy Leigh Buzzetti. He was also a loving father to his daughter, Marylou Buzzetti Stinson, and a cherished grandfather to Benjamin Brian Stinson and James Richard Stinson. He shared in the lives of his grandchildren with boundless pride and joy and is also remembered alongside their father, Brian Daniel Stinson.

Tony’s sense of family extended far beyond titles. His nieces and nephews were deeply loved and adored, and he considered them as much a part of his family as his own children—always present with encouragement, love, and genuine care.

A graduate of the University of Montana, Tony served honorably in the United States Marine Corps Reserve and the Central Intelligence Agency. He devoted his career to advocating for fair housing opportunities through his work in state government, championing dignity, fairness, and opportunity for individuals and families.

Tony retired in 2001 to focus on what mattered most - family. Alongside Lois, he opened the Education and Enhancement Center to help provide care, guidance, and enrichment for their grandchildren, reflecting his belief in education, presence, and nurturing young minds.

Tony’s first and greatest passion was spending time with his family. He loved watching his grandchildren play sports, perform on stage, and discover their own passions. He treasured family vacations with all of the grandchildren, especially trips to Walt Disney World and Kiawah Island in South Carolina - memories filled with laughter, togetherness, and lasting joy.

Born in Montana, Tony never lost his love for the mountains and rivers of his home state. That appreciation for nature mirrored his steady spirit and sense of wonder. When his children were young, weekends were devoted to adventure—often spontaneous outings complete with a can of Sterno and something simple to cook along the way.

In retirement, Tony spent countless happy hours researching family genealogy, playing cribbage and cards, reading books, and enjoying a glass of wine with Lois. He could ease into conversation with anyone who crossed his path. He doted on all of his dogs, always said yes to a fun adventure, and carried a warmth that made others feel immediately at ease.

Tony will be remembered for his kindness, fairness, and unwavering devotion to family. His spirit lives on through the generations he nurtured and the many lives he touched simply by being present.

He will be sorely missed and forever celebrated. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Tony’s memory to Special Olympics South Carolina at so-sc.org.