Anthony James Scagliola

Tony was born to Jamie and Jim Scagliola on February 20, 1975. By 1980 he had tow sisters, Gina and Angela. As a child Tony loved playing Little League and soccer, skateboarding, and riding his bike, usually wearing one of his many baseball caps. Tony was also a gifted left-handed artist and dreamed of becoming an architect.

Tony’s life changed forever on July 11, 1988, when he was shot between the eyes at the age of 13. After a long stay at Memorial Hospital and six months at North Coast Rehabilitation, Tony finally returned home on February 1, 1989. The injury left him with many challenges. He had to relearn how to do many things using his right hand, could no longer taste or smell, wore a brace on his left leg, and walked with a cane. But Tony survived, and his strength and determination carried him forward.

Tony rejoined his eight-grade class midway through the school year. At graduation he received a standing ovation from his classmates, a moment that meant a great deal to him and to his family. Tony never lost his sense of humor and loved comedy. Saturday Night Live and Mad magazine were among his favorites.

Tony Later attended Rancho Cotati High School, where he did very well academically. In 1993 he graduated and once again received a standing ovation from his fellow seniors and friends, a deeply touching tribute.

For many years Tony felt he had lost his artistic imagination, saying it had been “blown out of his head.” With encouragement from his mother and family, however his creativity eventually returned. In 2004 Tony joined Alchemia in Petaluma, where he developed his own artistic style and sold many of his pieces. He remained part of the Alchemia community for 21 years. The staff there were a great source of inspiration and friendship for him.

Tony also loved motorcycle rides with his Pop, Jim. He often rode in the sidecar on day trips with the Rip City Riders and participated in many Petaluma parades over the years.

In February 2025 Tony celebrated his 50th birthday with a large party surrounded by many schoolmates, neighbors, friends, and family members. It meant a great deal to him to see so many people who cared about him. In the following months, cancer slowly weakened him and he eventually became homebound. His caretakers from Fiji helped keep him comfortable and cared for. The family would also like to express special thanks to the team at By the Bay Health Hospice for their compassion and support during this difficult time.

Tony’s loyal friend Ben Grudzielanek was also a constant presence in his life, often stopping by to take Tony out and about. They shared may fun times together and created lasting memories.

Tony was a wonderful older brother and was admired by all who knew him. He was quick to smile and laugh, especially at a corny joke. He passed peacefully on February 27, 2026, one week after his 51st birthday. Tony will be deeply missed. He was easy to love.

Tony is survived by his Mom, Jamie Gallagher; his sisters, Gina Collier(Grant) and Angela Scagliola; his nephews Coral Bacigalupi(Victoria), Orion and Terran Kesterson and Dominic Collier; his niece Betty Collier; and one great nephew, Casey Bacigalupi. He was preceded in death by his father, Jim Scagliola.

A Celebration of Tony’s life will be held on Sunday April 26, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the Rohnert Park Community Center. Guests are invited to share a favorite memory of Tony.

Tony was known for having a sweet tooth, so anyone wishing to bring a dessert to share is warmly welcome.

The color of the day will be orange, Tony’s favorite.