Anton "Tony" Albert Dreher

Tony was born near Peoria, Illinois in a small farming community. He loved farming and working outside with the soil and planting a garden and flowers. He kept many bird feeders full and loved watching them, especially the hummingbirds. All animals loved him, even a rooster that wandered up when he was tired and VERY hungry. Tony fed him and got him healthy. The rooster would follow him around the yard. He was a kind and compassionate man and enjoyed traveling and singing in the church choir. He died at NHC Columbia and would have been 90 the end of May.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 311 West 7th Street, Columbia, TN where Tony was a member for many years. Fr. Chris Bowhay will officiate, assisted by Deacon Bonnie Loyd-Downs. Following the service, he will be laid to rest in Maury Memorial Gardens. The visitation will be at 10:30 AM with the memorial service at 12:00 PM. Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Tony graduated from Peoria High School, attended two years of college, and took engineering courses while serving in the Army. He was a veteran of over seven years and worked on guided missiles on Okinawa. After his service to our country, Tony went into the fire and communication field installing closed circuit TV’s, PA systems, fire alarms, etc. in schools, nursing homes and hospitals.

Tony’s father, George Albert and mother, Irma Ray, brother Ray and sister Alberta, are all deceased.

Tony is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Barbara Jeanne Ryan Easley Dreher; two children, Douglas Matthew Dreher and Daniel Lee Dreher and five stepchildren, Levada Beck, Robert (Debbie) Easley and Elizabeth Fanning; grandchildren, Layla (Jerry) Hawkins, Celeste and Bryan Fanning, Lorie (Brandon) Davis, Alissa Nolen, Kamryn Easley and Brandi Easley (Deceased). He had 17 great grandchildren and will be missed by all that knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 311 West 7th St., Columbia, TN 38401.