Joseph Anthony “Tony” Sorrell was born on September 23, 1953, in San Antonio, Texas, to Jo Dee Sorrell. He peacefully passed away at home in San Diego on October 3, 2024.
Tony accepted Christ at an early age at Friendship Baptist Church in San Antonio, Texas. He graduated from Edgewood High School and briefly attended St. Philip’s College in San Antonio as well as City and Mesa Colleges in San Diego, California.
In 1972, Tony met the love of his life, Sylvia Bibbs. They got married in 1973. From this union, a son, Joseph Anthony Sorrell Jr., was born. On November 16, 1974, Tony proudly joined the U.S. Navy, where he served until his honorable release on April 11, 1977, after which he continued his service in the Naval Reserve. After his military service, Tony built a successful career in San Diego, California, working at General Dynamics (GD), CSC, and GD NASSCO before retiring on September 30, 2021.
Fun fact about Joe, there were three things that Joe really loved (outside of family): the
Cowboys, the San Antonio Spurs, and real R&B music! His kindness, dedication, and vibrant spirit along with that big always on smile were felt by all who knew him.
Tony is preceded in death by his beloved mother Jo Dee Sorrell, his daughter Tonya Yvette Sorrell, his twin brothers; Stanley Charles and Stephen Craig Sorrell, and his grandmother, Lola B. Sorrell.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving son Joseph Anthony Sorrell Jr., his
longtime partner Pearle Larsosa (Hawaii), his brother Glynn Elliott Sorrell, his best friend Elbert Roberson, Jr., his son’s mother Sylvia Day, his aunties; Edna Clay, Marilyn Sorrell Bell, Alice Hodge, and Gloria Bacon Smith, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
