Anthony Paniagua

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for the time we were blessed to share with him, we announce the passing of Anthony Paniagua, who courageously battled ALS with strength and dignity until he passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home, surrounded by love, just as he wished. <br /> <br /> Anthony was born on March 15, 1986, in the Bronx, New York. From an early age, his intelligence and determination were evident. He graduated from Lehman High School and went on to attend technical college, where his brilliance and natural ability to problem-solve set him apart. He was gifted, driven, and always striving to grow. <br /> <br /> One of Anthony's guiding principles in life was, "I strive to be the best version of myself." He truly lived by those words. <br /> <br /> Anthony was more than a beloved son, brother, uncle, and partner — he was a mentor, a teacher, and a source of strength to so many. He had a powerful presence and a rare ability to uplift others. People sought him out for advice, guidance, and encouragement. He led not only with wisdom, but through example. <br /> <br /> He often reminded those around him, "Al final del túnel hay luz" — at the end of the tunnel, there is light. Even during his battle with ALS, he embodied that belief. Though his body grew tired, his spirit remained strong. He faced adversity with courage and grace, inspiring everyone who witnessed his fight. <br /> <br /> Anthony's smile was contagious. Even in his final days, when his body was weak, his smile could still light up a room. That light reflected the man he was — warm, resilient, brilliant, and full of heart. <br /> <br /> To his parents, he was everything — their pride, their heart, their strength. The man he became was a testament to the love and foundation they gave him. <br /> <br /> To his nephews, he was a proud and loving uncle who leaves behind a legacy of courage and integrity. <br /> <br /> And to his sister, Yesenia, he will always be her first son, her protector, and her heart. He will forever be her "Batman" — her hero, her strength, her inspiration. <br /> <br /> Anthony is survived by his parents, Marie Gonzalez and Carlos Paniagua; his siblings, Yesenia Villa and Stuart Paniagua; his loving nephews, Alexander Villa and Aiden Villa; his partner, Lisa Segarra; and his lifelong best friends, Barry Vargas, David York, and Shane York. <br /> <br /> Anthony made it clear that when his time came, he did not want only tears — he wanted to be celebrated. He wanted stories shared, laughter through memories, and love felt loudly. And that is how we will honor him. <br /> <br /> A Celebration of Life will be held at R.G. Ortiz Funeral Home, 2121 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY 10462, on Saturday, February 21st, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. <br /> <br /> In honoring Anthony's wishes, he will be cremated on Monday, February 23, 2026. <br /> <br /> Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing he is no longer suffering. His legacy of strength, mentorship, brilliance, love, and perseverance will live on in every life he touched. <br /> <br /> We celebrate you, Anthony. <br /> Your strength. Your wisdom. Your smile. Your light. <br /> Forever our Batman.