Frederick Anthony Rather Sr.

ROCKFORD – Frederick Anthony "Tony" Rather Sr., age 58, of Rockford passed away Wednesday March 4, 2020. Born in Belvidere on November 9, 1961 to Frederick Leon & Faye Rather. An avid sports fan, Tony was an umpire for many years and always rooted for the Miami Dolphins, Chicago Cubs and US Womens Soccer. He enjoyed time playing chess and shooting pool at the YMCA, as well as attending Total Faith Church. A practical joker, he cherished making people happy and loved to dance. He met his wife dancing and they continued to dance til the end. He will remain forever in our hearts.

He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Rose Marie Rather (Scarpitta); children, Frederick Anthony "TJ" (Jennifer) Rather Jr. and Courtney Renee Rather; mother, Paula Rather; grandchildren, Zoie, Domunik, Dallas, Khloie, Liliana, Anthony; very special person, Arianna Flores; sisters, Ginger and Brandy; brother, Ray (Jen) Rather; sister-in-law, Roberta Rather; uncle, Dale (Sue) Rather, aunt, Sandy Rather; nieces & nephews, Cody Rather, Autumn (Courtney) Brown Rather, Myranda (Brandon) Rather and Jaime Rather; step nieces & nephews, Chastity, Timothy (Rebecca), Kylie, Shayna, Keegan and Trenton; many dear friends at Rockford YMCA Mens Club, Anderson Packaging, Danny Wenger and Tracey; and beloved cat, Josephine. He is predeceased by his father, Frederick Leon Rather; brother, Terry Rather; uncle, Bill Rather; and mother & father-in-law, Tony (Rachel) Scarpitta.

Services are Private. Cremation rites accorded. Christenson Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Memorials to the family.

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