Antonio M. “Tony” Ferrara

Antonio M. Ferrara, 30, passed away Friday, Nov. 1, 2013.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 8, in Biggers Funeral Chapel. Interment: Goshen Cemetery in Parker County.

Memorials: The family wishes that in lieu of flowers that a donation be made to the Wounded Warriors Project in his honor.

Antonio, known as Tony to his friends and family, was first and foremost a loving father and husband. He dedicated his life to his family and country selflessly and without question. Achieving his bachelor’s degree in sports and health science, he was passionate in all things fitness-related and took pleasure in encouraging others with creative approaches to physical fitness. He was known for his silly personality by those who knew him best, and as a great leader, mentor and friend by his fellow soldiers.

He entered the military Aug. 22, 2002, as an air defense battle management system operator. Most recently, he had been assigned to the 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade at Fort Hood since April 2012.

During his time in service he was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from March 2003-August 2003, January 2005-January 2006 and March 2007-June 2008, as well as in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from July 2012-April 2013. With his military service, he was awarded a Bronze Star Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals as well as numerous others.

Survivors include his wife of 10 years, Jhodi Harmon Ferrara of Springtown; children, Mason Ferrara and Logan Ferrara of Springtown; parents, Charles and Susan Ferrara of Springhill, Fla.; and sister, Christina Sanders.