Anthony "Tony" W. Barbary, of Rockford, Illinois, departed this earthly life on January 3, 2026. He was born to Dorothy Barbary and Robert Peoples Sr. He graduated from Auburn High School in 1980 and later attended Rock Valley College. Anthony possessed a true entrepreneurial spirit and founded several successful businesses, including The Feel Effect Shop and Barbary Mobile Notary Service. He also had an inventive mind and held a U.S. utility patent for a personal timed bank designed to teach people how to save money.
Anthony was a wonderful father who faithfully shared his wisdom with his daughters. He was a strong pillar in the Barbary family and in the community, mentoring many along the way. Kind, funny, and genuine, his spirit touched countless lives. He had a deep love for music and was well known for creating some of the best mixtapes in town.
A man of God, Anthony was steadfast in his spiritual walk. He was never afraid of death, as he knew what awaited him on the other side. Please rejoice in knowing that he has joined the Lord, and his homegoing celebration has begun.
Anthony leaves to cherish many loving memories with his two daughters, Aiesha and Valentyna Barbary; his mother, Dorothy Joyner; three sisters, Kayla Dean, Diane Peoples, and Denise Peoples; six brothers, Dion Barbary, Anthony A. King, Shawn Barmore, Robert Peoples Jr., Bruce Simmons, and Dennis Barrett; and a host of other relatives and friends who supported him throughout his life.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Peoples Sr., and three brothers, Darrell Barbary, Alfonso Barbary, and Robert Barrett.
Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home, Inc., 200 N. Johnston Ave., Rockford, IL 61101. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue until the time of service.