Antonio Mario (Coach) Farrace September 2, 1945 - August 16, 2024
JOHNSON CITY - Antonio Mario (Coach) Farrace, 78, of Johnson City, passed away on August 16, 2024.
Tony was born on September 2, 1945, in San Massimo, Italy to the late John and Concetta Farrace. His family settled in Wilmington, DE. He graduated from P.S. DuPont High School where he wrestled and played football. He proceeded to get a wrestling scholarship to Milligan College where he met his college sweetheart Beth Vincent Farrace.
After graduating from Milligan, he went on to teach at Science Hill High school for 30 years, teaching American Government, U.S. History, World History, and Contemporary Issues. He then proudly acquired his U.S. citizenship in 1976. While at Science Hill, Tony coached wrestling, JV football, boys' soccer, and along with Juan Chiu, he introduced travel soccer to Johnson City. He coached boys travel soccer, but he was most proud of starting the girls' soccer program in 1989 at Science Hill where he would finally have daughters.
He was a great role model and mentored numerous kids in so many ways, through life and athletics.
After retirement he enjoyed taking his grandchildren for ice cream every chance he had and enjoyed morning breakfast conversations with the R.O.M.E.O. Club (retired old men eating out) at Hardees.
He is survived by his loving wife Beth Vincent Farrace, three sons and five grandchildren. John Michael Farrace (Sherri) daughter Domanique; Antonio Vincent Farrace (Angie), and their children Sienna and Luca, and Patrick Kenneth Farrace (Laura) and their children Camilla and Colton, sister Christina Pipkin (Roy) and several nieces and nephews.
The funeral service for Tony will be conducted on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. in the Chapel at Tetrick Funeral Services, Johnson City, with Bishop C. Bryant Collins, officiating. The eulogy will be given by Rev. Joseph R. Rollins-Gillispie. Special music by Brent W. Billheimer. The graveside committal service will follow in Milligan College Cemetery. Pallbearers will be John Michael Farrace, Antonio Vincent Farrace, Patrick Kenneth Farrace, James Victor Comis, Dr. Yoo Keun "Tom" Kim, James Earl McIllwain, and Bruce Alfred White.
The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:00-2:00 P.M. at the funeral home.
In-lieu-of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Tony Farrace Scholarship Fund at Milligan University.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Ballad Hospice for the care given to Tony.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www. tetrickfuneralservices.com.
Tetrick Funeral Services, 3001 Peoples St. Johnson City, TN 37604, is honored to serve the Farrace family (610-7171).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Tetrick Funeral Services - Johnson City.
CR Henderson
June 10, 2025
Ti amo sempre
Tom Terry
September 7, 2024
Coach Farrace was my wrestling coach at science hill. Not only that, he was a life coach and was truly like a second father to me my entire life.
A great that I will miss dearly.
Tom terry Jr.
Damian Vice
August 31, 2024
Antonio M. Farrace-known to many as Mr. T., Coach, and to me, simply as Dad.
Though I was not a family blood relative, the Farrace family embraced me as one of their own. From the first day I met them, gran dad (Mr. Johnny) and Nona (Mrs. Concetta), welcomed me into a circle of love and guidance that I will forever cherish.
In meeting Mr. Antonio M. Farrace, he was more than just a coach or a teacher; he was a mentor, a role model, and a friend. His wisdom and kindness touched the lives of so many, including my own. Through the years, he was a steadfast presence, offering advice, support, and a listening ear when I needed it most. The countless conversations we shared are memories I will carry with me always, guiding me through life´s challenges and triumphs.
His dedication to helping young people was unparalleled. Mr. Farrace selflessly devoted his life to guiding those who needed direction, helping them find the right path. It is an impossible task to quantify the impact he had on the lives of so many, but I can say without hesitation that I am a better person because of him. For me, his teachings extended far beyond the wrestling mat or the classroom-they were lessons in life, integrity, and kindness.
As we remember Antonio M. Farrace, I want to express my deepest gratitude for everything he has done for me and countless others. He shaped us, supported us, and taught us not just how to succeed, but how to live with purpose and compassion.
The quote, "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory no one can steal," resonates deeply in my mind. Because we are left with an irreplaceable void, but also with a treasure trove of memories that will never fade. The love and wisdom he shared will live on in all of us who were fortunate enough to know him.
We all love you, Mr. T. You will be dearly missed, but your legacy will endure in the lives you touched.
With all my heart,
Your Honorary Son,
Damian
David Archie
August 29, 2024
He was a good man and a great coach. I enjoyed coaching with him. He taught me a good deal about the game of soccer. I had the honor of coaching one of his sons and Tony was always willing to help me in that process.
Kim Hartman Witherspoon
August 26, 2024
Great teacher and friend to my dad (Charlie Hartman)
Joanne Bennett
August 23, 2024
John, we have you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Kimberly (Campbell) McKinney
August 23, 2024
Coach Farrace was such a a kind and genuine person. I loved his class and looked forward to being there each day. He always had a big smile for you and truly cared about us as his students. Prayers for Beth and the family during this difficult time.
Kim Campbell class of 1983
Sheila Bray
August 22, 2024
Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you. May God surround each of you in His loving arms of peace and comfort. Sheila & son, David, Bray.
Craig Campbell
August 21, 2024
He was a larger than life presence on Science Hill campus! My condolences to his family. Craig Campbell
Travis Barnett
August 21, 2024
As a student and friend of Tony's, I hate to hear this. Unfortunately I lost touch with Tony shortly after graduation due to my traveling for work. As an outsider in High School, I can proudly sat that Tony was the FIRST teacher/adult I looked up to, admired and respected. He was one of the best. My thoughts and prayers go out to Beth and all the family. Rest in peace my friend. Heaven just gained a beautiful angel.
Greg Peters
August 21, 2024
Loved Coach, my favorite teacher. He made me love American History. Unbelievable wrestling coach, he could pin you with just his legs. So passionate about everything he did. I got to see him when my son wrestled in the Farrace classic in 2015. He will definitely be missed.
Cynthia Fox
August 21, 2024
Loved Coach Farrace during my time at Science Hill. Such a kind genuine person. He was always my favorite teacher. Prayers for his family---he will be truly missed.
Carol S Faniola
August 21, 2024
I loved seeing Coach Farrace and wrestling meets and at Mass as well! Such a genuine and generous person. He will be missed!
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Tetrick Funeral Services - Johnson City3001 Peoples Street, Johnson City, TN 37604
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