WILSON, Anthony Joseph

We were saddened to learn of the passing of our friend and fellow Salvationist Anthony Wilson. We will keep Fiona and members of the Wilson and Milkins families in our thoughts and prayers. Anthony will be missed.

No words will ever be enough to take away what your going through right now, but we are all here to love and support you all through this difficult journey. Anthony you will be greatly missed by all that knew you, you were a beautiful man, with a kind heart, infectious smile and just a genuinely all round nice guy. Love to you all xx

Anthony, you have inspired so many people, you have the most wonderful family who are a tribute to your guiding influence, i know they will keep your memory shining bright.

Fiona we are so sad and sorry for the passing of Anthony the world has lost one of the most beautiful human beings that ever walked the earth we send our love and strength to you the kids and family. Kim and Steve

Our beautiful friend Anthony, may you Rest In Peace. We will cherish our special memories We will miss the joy and laughter you brought to our lives.
You were truly one of the best.
Love and sympathy to Fiona Aaron Grace Caleb and family xxx

The world has lost a true gentleman, thinking of the family at this very sad time. Rest easy “Hag”

An amazing person & mentor taken too soon. Throughout High School I was supported by Mr Wilson personally and was always so thankful for his presence and warm smile at School. Such a kind and caring person – he always went above and beyond in his career & for that I will always remember him. Thank you for being you, you were one in a million and I aspire to be as much of a role model for my future children as you were for yours.

To Fiona and family, I send my conferences for your tragic loss. A husband and a Father, who was a role model for all. I have you all in my thoughts and admire your strength at this time, as you continue to honour his legacy through raising awareness and supporting Bowel Cancer Australia.

The world has lost a truly wonderful human. I am devastated for Anthony’s family and for the many people who loved him, including our school community in Willow Grove. He will be so deeply missed by everyone, including me and my three boys who attend WGPS. When I asked them what they loved most about Mr Wilson, they said it was the way he made everyone feel special, greeted kids by their nicknames, and always had a smile on his face. Sending love, strength and beautiful memories to Anthony’s family at this devastating time xx.

Anthony it was my pleasure to meet you while doing some teaching up at Willow Grove Primary while on redeployment from Woorabinda during those fun Covid times. I generally liked to arrive early and it was always great to have a chat with you, whether that was about footy, school or life in general. Your passion and enthusiasm for teaching is something that I won’t forget. My condolences to your family and friends, but always remember the good times.

Thelma and Dennis Mcmillin are sending condolences and prayer support to all the family xx

I’ll never forget the great care and friendship Anthony showed towards me as a friend and colleague during a difficult time in my life. A fabulous mentor, he demonstrated the kind of considerate values I aspire to. Anthony will never be forgotten. I will always remember him fondly.

You will be greatly missed Anthony you touched so many hearts . Deepest sympathy to Fiona , Aaron, Grace , Caleb and families rest easy Anthony xx

Still can’t believe that you are gone Anthony, RIP, God only takes the best😘

Dear Fiona. John and I are saddened on the passing of Anthony. We send our heartfelt condolences to you and the family. Anthony will certainly be remembered for his courage and endurance on his fight against this horrible disease. All our love to you and the family Fiona. In Gods care.

I will forever remember Mr Wilson as my high school maths teacher. The kindest most caring teacher I had. I struggled understanding a lot in our classes but Mr Wilson did everything he could to help and tutor me through year 12, he took so much time into helping me and I will be forever grateful. A beautiful man taken away from his family far too soon. RIP Mr Wilson 🙏🏼

Thinking of you all in your time of sadness – may all the wonderful and funny and happy memories you have of Willow help to ease your hearts. Those memories are his greatest gift to you. Please know that you are not alone in your grief and you are in my thoughts xx

Anthony you were a great man who always went out of your way to help people. You were kind, loving, funny, smart, inspirational, had a great smile and so much more right till the end. I particularly will ever forget what you did for my family especially my oldest daughter. You were and are very loved. Never forgotten. Please Fiona and family if you need anything please contact us. Much love and RIP

We thank God for Anthony’s life of faith and Christian service which he lived authentically in every aspect of his rich relationships. His courage and dignity during this last chapter of earthly existence is an eloquent testimony to his readiness to meet his God and Saviour. Eternal life is Anthony’s true domain for the countless ages to come. Well done good and faithful servant enter into the joy of your Lord.

Anthony was truly a gem, he was dedicated first and foremost to his family, his faith and his career. Everyone who was lucky enough to know him would agree that Anthony left this world a better place because of the love he shared with all he knew.
The love this family shows to all they meet reflects on what a good husband and dad Anthony was and his love will shine through Fiona and their 3 beautiful children forever
Thinking of you all now and going forward 😢😘

It was such a pleasure to work alongside you Anthony during 2020. My interactions with you demonstrated to me what a passionate, caring, kind and gentle soul I was working with.
You genuinely cared about all people and wanted the best for them. A really beautiful soul. Rest peacefully mate.
To my dear friend Fiona and family, love to you all.

I am so sad to hear of Mr Wilson’s passing . He made such a difference in my boys lives as their teacher . An amazing man who will be sadly missed . May he Rest In Peace .

Anthony your ability to generate and cultivate deep connections with students and staff was always noticeable, and a credit to the safe and wholesome aura you embodied every day. A genuinely empathetic human, generous community member and true family man – you are already so sorely missed.

Much love to Fiona and the kids. I know they will carry your legacy on with their hearts on their sleeves and in time, smiles on their faces

Rest in Peace Anthony, one of life’s true gentleman. Thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Thank you for bringing kindness to our world, such a gentle heart that will be missed forever. You have left a legacy & it will live on in your family. Something I will always remember is how your face lit up watching & supporting the kids in their sport, all through their lives, from tiny hoopers right up until now! Thanks for always cheering anyone lucky enough to play in teams with Az, Grace & Caleb on too. Take it easy up there, never stop smiling down on all of us!

My love to the Wilson’s x

Rest in peace Anthoy.

My sincere condolences to the Wilson family.

It is with heavy hearts that Sally and I say goodbye to our much loved and highly respected son in law, Anthony, who made such a huge impact on our lives, as well as those of many others.

Anthony was a unique person, a man of strong values who lived for his family, made friends easily, was compassionate, alert and aware of the concerns of those he dealt with and an inspiration to all who knew him.

Our hearts ache for our daughter Fiona, children Aaron, Grace and Caleb, and Anthony’s immediate and extended family in their sorrow, but having the assurance Anthony was someone very special, and also comforted by the knowledge Anthony was held in high esteem by all those who knew him.

It is not up to us to reason why, but be thankful Anthony is now free from all pain and has left for us many lovely memories to cherish forever.

Sally and Brian Milkins.

Oh my gosh. I’m so sorry to hear this news. He was such a wonderful man who we will all miss terribly…..including my kids who absolutely loved him, and were very fortunate to have him as their principal and friend at Willow Grove primary.
Sending much love to his family and friends during this very difficult time.
Ben, Sarah, Heidi, Jack & Amelia Cumming
Xx

Anthony, you left us too soon. Such a kind and gracious man. A beautiful family man and a caring educator. I remember the time when you gave me your brand new car for a week because mine had broken down and I needed to get to work. You are amazing. Much love to all the family. You are all in my thoughts.

Anthony a wonderful, gentle, caring and inspiring man taken too soon. We have been blessed to know you. We send our love and condolences to Fiona, Aaron, Grace and Caleb and cannot imagine the heartache you all must be enduring at this time.
Kerry, John, Brennan and Ryan Mills

Deepest sympathy to you, Fiona and your family on the loss of Anthony, a life dedicated to others.

Fiona and family there are no words. My heartfelt condolences to all the family and wider ‘Willow’ community.

Anthony you shone bright on this earth for many years you will still shine bright just from up above. Rest peaceful now. Love to Fiona, Az, Grace, Caleb, Marilyn, Stewart and all your families. Xxx

A beautiful smile and cheeky laugh… I cherish our friendship Anthony.
Love and hugs to Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb & Family xx

Goodbye dear friend, (Mate) gone too soon.
We will not see each other again.
What we were meantt o say and do , we have done.
So with head bowed low I try to bear my sorrow with good Cher. It is all part of Gods plan. A step on the road to home.
Lots of Love to Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Callib and family

Gordon MacGregor

This world has lost a loving father and husband, dedicated teacher and generous community member. Your support and commitment to your students will be forever appreciated. You will be missed and always loved.

Sending you sincere condolences for the loss of Anthony. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Grief is the price we pay for love… May his memory be with you always. Love the Meyer family x

The world has lost one of a kind. You’re kindness, happiness and friendship will be greatly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know you Anthony.
A smile that can’t be forgotten and a man that will be deeply missed.
Sending all our love to your beautiful family; Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb, Marilyn, Stewart and all the Willow crew.

Sending love to you and yours. I did not have the pleasure of meeting your husband, but you and your daughter inspire me with your strength and dignity every day ♡

Fiona, Aaron, Grace & Caleb, May you be surrounded by love during this time of such sorrow and profound loss. My heart aches for and with you.
I feel blessed to have known Anthony during his time here on this earth.
Rest Easy Willow.

Anthony was such a beautiful Man of God, it was a great Joy to grow up with him in our younger days and keep in touch over the ongoing years. Anthony always had a positive spirit and as we shared friendship such a positive influence in my life growing… I remember the words “Come on Phil” as he encourage me when decisions became tough. I was a pure honour to be your best man at your wedding to Fiona…
Rest In Peace in loving arms of Jesus, Well done to the service you gave to God now enjoy your reward in Heaven 🙏💜😇

Anthony was a valued and committed soldier of the Moe Salvation Army and served God faithfully there throughout his life. Anthony embodied compassion, encouragement, strong values and Christian service in all aspects of his life and was a true reflection of Christ and Christian love. Throughout his years of service Anthony played and then led the brass band, played in the worship band, was Youth Leader alongside Fiona, played the piano for Songsters, was on the leadership team and participated in all areas of the running of the Corps.
Our church family is devastated and will not be the same without him, but we take comfort in the assurance that he has received his eternal reward and now resides in Heaven with his Lord and Saviour who he loved.
Well done Good and Faithful Soldier. We will meet again in God’s time.

A gentle, beautiful soul who always had a smile on his face. Anthony will be missed by many. Sending love and strength to you Fiona, you have shown grace and courage throughout and are not alone, we are here for you xx

Anthony will be missed by all who knew him. Condolences to all the family.

I am very sorry to hear the sad news. However, I am thankful to have had Willow in my life as a mentor and as a friend. I have many happy memories as I am sure you do too. Lots of love from me and my family.

Anthony the legacy you have left is too extensive to comprehend. No doubt your work will be carried on by the large number of people you inadvertently inspired.

We send our love to your family and cherish the time we spent with you over the years.

Ann & Max Maloney

To Anthony’s beautiful family & beloved friends our family sends our deepest sympathies to you all. Anthony was such a generous & inspirational person who (along with Fiona) guided our Liam to many academic achievements. Always there umpiring footy & helping the community in many ways. Our world & community was and is still blessed to have him – his kindness will be with us all. ❤️

Anthony was a beautiful human, and all our lives were brighter for knowing him. Sending you and the family so much love, Fiona x

Thinking of you all with love as we remember the happy happy times.

A man of fierce love, for his family, for his friends, for his God.
A man of kindness and respect, understanding and grace.
A man of unwavering faith.

Life takes us in many directions, expected and unexpected, but not without purpose.
Anthony, I am incredibly thankful our paths crossed and to have shared in knowing you – thank you for all you bought into my life.

Thoughts, prayers and love with Fiona, Aaron, Grace & Caleb (and partners), Marilyn & Stuart, Serena & Family ♡

We have such lovely memories. Anthony touched so many lives and will be greatly missed.
Love

“Love the Lord your God, and love your neighbour as yourself.” Boy, did Anthony Wilson live that well!

He gave his time, his skills, his care and his possessions, freely and selflessly. He shared his faith and encouraged others. We are the better for having known him.

Such devastating news. Anthony was such a beautiful caring person.
Each and every conversation I’ve ever had with Anthony he always gave you his full attention, he always showed so much kindness compassion & understanding and when advice was needed you could guarantee Anthony would be the voice of reason. I had so much respect for Anthony because of the person he was. A true gentleman.

I’m so glad we had the pleasure of knowing you Anthony. I’m so sad that your time has come to an end. My heartfelt condolences to Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb, Family and Friends xx

To know him was to love him.

Love from the Davis Family xx

Anthony, you have always been an inspiration, a kindhearted friend to all, and a hardworking role model. Your faith has always been a light to all those around you.. Beyond blessed to have had you as my incredible Maths teacher all those years ago, and so proud to call you my brother’s Father-in-law. You have spent years investing into people and your legacy is like no other. Love from the Hardy’s

Anthony made such an impact on so many, he’ll be truly missed. My love and prayers to his family.

Anthony you were an amazing person who left his presence in everything , your faith, teaching, sport, community, friends but most importantly your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb and your families. Dean, Carmen and family xx

There aren’t enough words to express my absolute gratitude for having had you in my life Anthony. You brought so much light and laughter. May you rest easy in God’s love and grace ❤️

All my love to Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb, Aunty Marilyn, Uncle Stuart, Serena and all the family at this incredibly devastating time. May you find comfort in your precious memories and the knowledge that Anthony and his wonderful legacy will always be remembered xxx

Such tragic news for our wonderful community. Mr Wilson made such an incredible impact on so many lives. Sending peace, comfort & courage to Fiona and the rest of the family.

Our community has lost a wonderful person, Anthony you were passionate, generous, and caring. Always ready to lend a helping hand, Anthony you lived out your values in all you did. You will be missed. Our love and prayers are with you Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb, Marilyn and Stewart during this extremely difficult time.

The outpourings of love in honour of this wonderful man reflects the most inspiring of legacies any of us could ever hope to achieve. Even from the short time that I knew Anthony it is obvious how his kind, humble and generous nature has touched so many, and I am grateful to him for gracing me with the same.
To his beautiful family, may your own cherished memories of Anthony fill your days with love, and may he rest peacefully knowing that so many lives were made better for knowing him.

Anthony I feel blessed to have known you. Your positivity and desire to help people always shone through. You have inspired and touched too many people to mention. Huge amounts of love to Fiona, Aaron and Celeste, Grace and Dan, Caleb and the extended family. Your wonderful memories with them will be cherished forever. Rest In Peace Love Ali Hilli

My heart is breaking for you all. Anthony was such a beautiful soul and courageous man of faith and hope.
He will be greatly missed by a huge amount of people which is testament to the relationships he was able to build so easily with everyone he met. I feel honoured to have worked along side Anthony for a short time. My deepest sympathy to you all.

We are so lucky to have had Anthony in our lives. A friendship that we will forever treasure with so many special memories. The ultimate friend and a true gentleman.
Our heartfelt sympathies to all of his wonderful family.
Anthony will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

What a privilege to have known you, Anthony. You made a difference to every life you touched. With deepest condolences and much love to Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb and families as they find a way to carry their grief. Leia, Chris and Jude. x

I am so sorry and sad to hear the loss of Anthony. Your entire family along with Anthony have had a substantial impact on my life and I thank you for your involvement, love and support.
I will be viewing the livestream from my workplace and will always remember Anthony for the kind heart he is. The hall will not be the same without his beautiful melodies he played on the piano during the services.

Love and prayers to your family

Anthony, you were a true gentleman, kind and caring, always quick with a smile and ready for a chat. I am blessed to have known you as a colleague and a friend for many years. A memory I will hold dear in my heart is of us at the school swimming sports exchanging good humoured banter and laughter. When I picture that I can almost smile.
My love and sympathy to Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb and family.

Jan Walkinshaw

Anthony, you were one of the kindest and gentlest people that I have ever met. You greeted everyone around you with a big infectious smile that would immediately lift their spirits, even if they were having a tough day. You saw the good in everyone and always went out of your way to help people. Your passion and zest for life were inspiring and you made people want to be better versions of themselves, to lift to the potential that you saw in them.
You were so brave throughout your cancer journey and through it all you still managed to let that big smile of yours shine through. I know how much you adored your family and I am gutted for Fiona and the kids along with your parents, Serena and extended family. This community has lost a true gentleman and a beautiful soul. I send all my love to your family during this tough time. I hope that they can take comfort in the loving memories they have of you and knowing how many lives you touched and how appreciated you were by so many people.

A kind, wonderful man. Thinking of all the family in such a sad time.
Love Di Lincoln

Although I didn’t know Anthony, I do know that he has a wonderful, caring and totally dedicated family. My sincere condolences to you all. You, as a family, are an inspiration Anthony was so fortunate to have had you all in his life.

Stuart, Marilyn and Fiona, it was such a shock to read of Anthony’s passing as we were not aware that he had been ill.
Our loving condolences and prayers for your families at such a sad time. What an inspiration to read the glowing tributes to Anthony.
From Jake & Joan van der Koogh and Jenni Reeves.

We have no words….at least no words that can help us understand why or no words that bring him back to you. But what we can say is that Anth was a great human, a truly loving soul and we feel privileged to have been able to call him our friend. Fiona and family, I am so, so sorry for your loss. Sending you all our love
Sally and Ian xx

Anthony was simply the best. From the first time we met him, it became immediately apparent we had not only gained family but gained a life long friend. Anthony was the kindest, most compassionate and tolerant of people (putting up with our silly shenanigans for years). Although we had thousands of miles between us, when we were back together again, it was if not a single moment had passed (except for us adding more kids to the mix). We will all treasure the precious times we had together, the laughs, the road trips, the golf…endless hours at Disneyland and the time spent just being together sharing our lives with one and other. We know if you could have chosen to, you would be here with us, you fought so very hard, but it is your time to be at peace. We will miss you so very much, your big heart, your huge smile and your uncanny ability to make us want to be better people. We will keep you in our hearts, now and forever. Our love, support and condolences to Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb and your loving family.
Lorraine, Erik, Logan and Jake Lapier

We were just shattered to hear about Anthony’s passing and our thoughts and prayers are with every family member and every person who felt his impact on their lives. Anthony made such a difference in the lives of so many people and the world is a better place from having had him in it. After fighting so hard and for so long, he is now safe in the arms of the Saviour that he adored. Rest in peace, Anthony.

Dear Fiona, Aaron & Celeste, Grace & Dan, Caleb, Marilyn & Stuart, Serena & Steve, Jack, Ruby and Millie.
Our world has changed forever, but especially for all of you, with Anthony’s ‘Promotion to Glory’. It was an honour to know and love Anthony and we are heavy hearted to realise we will never see his smiling face again. We were honoured by being part of your extended family and felt very privileged to be asked to be prayer pals for Aaron and Godparents to Grace and Caleb. Anthony’s indomitable spirit of Godliness and bravery shone through this last chapter of his life. We know Anthony is totally healed now and enjoying his reward in Heaven with the Lord he faithfully loved and served throughout his life. Goodbye our friend … Love and prayers for you all .

Always such a kind, fair and generous person. A true gentleman.

We will remember Anthony for his great sense of humour and love of his family, friends and community.

A wonderful man.

All our love to you Fiona, Aaron, Grace and Caleb.

Deepest sympathy to you Fiona, Aaron, Grace and Caleb and family in the passing of Anthony. From teaching Sarah keyboard at primary school, encouraging Jarrod with the saxophone, sharing a class of Further to help Peter pass in his VCAL year, the laughs have been many. Rest easy Anthony, you fought the fight with divinity and humour.
‘Do not weep that he has gone, rejoice that he has been’.

My sincere condolences to you Fiona and your family at this incredibly sad time. My love & thoughts are with you all. Rest in peace Anthony.

May God bless you all. My memory of Anthony was that he was one of the good ones in this world.

May the family know the love, support and care of those around you,. May you feel the presence of God in these difficult times.

Anthony, you were truly the best, a treasured friend to our family as well as an inspirational mentor for Harry. You made our community a better place and we will cherish the beautiful memories. RIP Willow
To Fiona, Aaron, Grace and Caleb, our sincere condolences. We are devastated for your loss. Sending you lots of love and strength, the Paces

Mr Wilson, Willow, Wilson, Anthony. You are all
of those to our family, but most of all our very treasured friend.
A mentor and mate. Always ready to talk about Grace and our girls and their awesome netball team, Aaron and Caleb and their footy, our beloved Hawks and everything in between. You were always there to lift others up, with your words, kindness and that wonderful smile of yours. We will be forever grateful for the time we spent together, the chats and the funny memories. Anthony, you are a true gentleman and an inspiration, to us and everyone whose life you touched. Our hearts are truly ‘cracked.’ Your friends , Dean, Jane, Emily, Abbey and Tessa Sneddon .

To Fiona, and Caleb, Aaron, and Celeste, Grace and Dan, Stu and Marilyn, Serena and her family and all of your extended family. Sending our love, and sincere condolences. Thankyou for sharing your person with us. We are and will always be here for you. Love from Dean, Jane, Emily, Abbey and Tessa Sneddon.

Anthony. A man of integrity, kindness, compassion and grace, you had such a huge impact on the lives of all you met. We shared many fun times with you, Fiona and the kids, and those memories of you are so precious to our whole family. Rest In Peace our beautiful friend xxx

Hey Anthony mate,
We watched you and your sister grow up with us all and go from strength to strength with the love and guide from you parents. Then a father with a strong beautiful wife. What a life and ride you have had mate. You have shown strength and resilience through all that has been placed in your lap. I will miss our chats and that smile that always made me feel so good when we parted. The lord is blessed to have you we are sad to see you go but am glad you made footprints in our lives. Blessings to the family you have left behind until you are all reunited.
Love
Ann Griffiths and family xxxx

A wonderful educator and a caring, honest and reliable person who will be sadly missed by all who knew him

Sending you all the love, hugs and prayers. Cherish the wonderful memories that you made together and celebrate the loving, generous and amazing man that Anthony was. His touched so many and we were blessed to have him in our lives. Anthony you have truly left a legacy.

The world has lost a great man, a fantastic teacher and principal and a brilliant role model. My boys are devastated. RIP Anthony 💔 we will miss you.

I am devastated that you are gone and that we all have to say our final goodbye to you today Anthony! I am grateful to have met you, joyous to have worked with you and most of all, honoured to have called you my friend. You are one of the reasons I am where I am today, without you…. I wouldn’t have got my pathway I am on now in my career. You are a major loss to this world and I will miss you. You are the most gracious and kind person who helped so many people. My deepest condolences and love to Fiona and your family in the difficult times of life without you. God bless all of you

We were lucky enough to have meet Anthony many years ago as he was starting his teaching journey in Mirboo North and then at Ths. as a teacher the impact on our children’s lives was huge and at times trying for him, he was always incredible supportive and understanding. Anthony, thank you, we are so grateful to have to have meet you and your passion for life was contagious. Fiona, family and friends you are in our thoughts.

Anthony was an incredible human being. Referred to him as my uncle my whole life. You will be dearly missed but I am grateful for all the wonderful and hilarious memories I have of you.

Fiona, Aaron, Grace and Caleb. We love you.

So sad, why does it happen to good people.

All our love to the entire Wilson family.

The Keilty’s.

A kind, gentle and gracious man.
It was a privilege to know you Anthony.
Sending our heartfelt condolences to Anthony’s family and close friends at this sad time.

Willow, it is with great fondness that I look back on memories shared with you and think of what a joy you were to be around.

You were such a comedian, a loving father and husband to your beautiful family and you will have a lasting imprint on the rest of my life. Knowing you in this life, is a blessing to me.

I hope you are at peace and I send all of my love and condolences to Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb and extended family and friends. What a life, what a person!

From Grady and The Ruiter’s, you will be deeply missed Willow! ❤️

The Wilson and Morley families have very much been in our thoughts and prayers over the past few days, we are sorry we can’t be there with you today. With love, the Byrne Family Echuca

Words cannot even begin to express our sorrow by the passing of Anthony.

Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb. Mr & Mrs Wilson. Serena and families thinking of you all at this difficult time.
When you lose a loved one, you gain an angel whose name you know.

Sorry for your loss.

Pat & Spud Regulski & Kerrie Strobridge & Family. XX

I have just watched the funeral for Anthony, what a fantastic tribute to a wonderful man. Fiona, you should be so proud of your children and the way they spoke of their father.
It is many years since I last saw Anthony but I remember with fondness his friendship as we were growing up and it is evident that his kindness, compassion and integrity stayed with him as he grew into a man who obviously loved his family and friends dearly.
So sorry for your sad loss.

We were shocked to hear the news. Our thoughts are with all the family, particularly Stuart and Marilyn

Our love and prayers are with you Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb and family. This world has lost one of its true gentlemen. The love Anthony gave us and the impact he had on all our lives will remain with us forever.

I feel privileged to have had Mr Wilson as a vice principal during my time at Trafalgar High School. His support and positivity will not be forgotten.
Love to Ms Milkins and family.

Glen and I have never met such an incredible human being. I had the absolute honour of working with him for the last three years. He was just the best!
Thinking of you all at this incredibly difficult time.💔

Such a wonderful man, I was honoured to call my friend. He has left his mark on the world in the hearts and minds of so many who will remember him forever. The legacy he leaves behind is in the shape of the most amazing family. My love to you all. xx

Anthony, you were an important part of our family and a true friend. The memories we have of the times we shared will help to sustain us in the days ahead. You treated our boys like they were your own and always supported them as they grew from children to adults and for this we will be forever grateful.
Our hearts are breaking but we know that you are at peace and free from suffering and pain.
We will forever miss you but you will never be forgotten.
All our love to Fiona, Aaron, Grace, and Caleb. Marilyn and Stuart and Serena as well as the rest of the family.

Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb and family, I wish you my sincerest condolences. Anthony was a great man in so many ways and someone that I truly admired and looked up to, not only as a friend and teacher but as a man of faith. I can credit Anthony for bringing me back to God and getting me back into music. Anthony saw something in me that I couldn’t recognise myself, a need for connection and friendship and I could never thank him enough for that. I am sincerely grateful for all of the time I spent with Anthony over the years and his genuine kindness, generosity, compassion and also his humour and friendship at work. He will be missed and I pray for peace and comfort for you all at this time.

I am thinking of the family at this sad sad time. We take some peace in the knowledge that he has been promoted to glory. Rest peacefully Anthony

Anthony, we witnessed the most incredible celebration of your life today. Your family and friends were all so strong and nothing short of amazing, their admiration, love and respect for you was completely evident and unanimous.
In your short time as Principal at Willow Grove Primary, you made such a huge impact on the School and wider Community.
It is true when they say that, “…people were better off for knowing you”.
You were truly one of a kind and will be dearly missed,
Sarah, Alex, Matilda, Acacia and Reed Marino

Anthony, my Friend. I will be forever in your debt That Fateful Evening back in 1992 when you dragged me up to the Moe Hospital Emergency dept, on deaths door, went into bat for me when the attending doctor was going to just send me home to rest & take Panadol. This wasn’t just a fever or Headache, it actually turned out to be meningitis. You went into action and tore shreds off the doctor until he relented & admitted me. That saved my Life. God Bless you and keep you until we meet again . Wishing Fiona, Aarron, Gace, Caleb, Marilyn, Stuart & Serena my deepest and most sincere condolences. With all my love (PeterG xo)

Such a beautiful man, gone too soon.
Anthony’s legacy will live on through his amazing family. Sending our deepest sympathy and lots of love to you all. ❤

We will always remember Anthony as a superb musician, a beautiful man whose life exemplified his faith. We are privileged to have had him as part of our community.
Fiona, and all the Wilson family, we offer our sincerest condolences, and pray that you will find God’s comfort, peace and healing presence in the coming days.
With love from Glenda and Joe Noordam

To Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb, Marilyn, Stuart and Serena. May the courage, strength and faith that shone through this beautiful celebration of Anthony’s life, stand by you in the times ahead, until you meet again.
With deep felt condolences and Christian love,
Faye

Absolutely devastating news. Anthony had such a positive influence on so many people’s lives. He was an amazing mentor and work colleague, kind and generous and advocated fiercely for the wellbeing of students and staff. I was fortunate to work alongside Anthony in our Science team as well as having his mentorship as a coordinator. Those fond memories will never be forgotten. He will be sorely missed. Sending love to Fiona, Aaron, Grace and Caleb and the rest of the family.

Remembering your wonderful husband and dad and wishing you comfort and strength. It is apparent what an outstanding and generous man Anthont was. I  I hope you feel surrounded by much love and although I can’t take the heartache away I want you to know I’m here with a shoulder or an ear or anything else you need. X

Our thoughts are with you all. Congratulations on a wonderful tribute to Anthony on Friday. Your family are amazing. Hope to catch up soon. Carol and Dave Swainsbury. We will support the Win the War with Willow appeal.

Though I didn’t know Anthony personally, in a sense I got to know him vicariously, though Fiona, Grace, Dan, and others. It was clear to me that he was someone a great many people looked up to, someone who earned the love and respect of those around him. His wit, humour, sensitivity, faith, and generosity are present in all of those close to him, a small indication of the incredibly positive impact he had on the lives of others. He has undoubtedly made the world a better place in his time here.

Sending our deepest condolences, thoughts, and love to all of the family,

Dan and Sam.

Thank you Anthony for the many moments of support, encouragement and joy that you have given my boys as they journeyed through their high school years. I remember sitting in an interview with you where we were talking about Grady’s next steps beyond high school. You made it feel like anything was possible for him and that you had complete faith in him. What a gift to give!
I also remember that when Hayden finished high school you were the one he wanted to get a special gift for, and he insisted on paying for that gift himself.
You will be forever missed and remembered 💜
Raewyn McMahon

Good afternoon everyone. My name is Justin Woodroffe and I am the Grade 5/6 teacher at Willow Grove Primary School. I’m here to speak on behalf of all staff and students at Willow Grove.
When teaching speech writing at school, we speak regularly about how we should only use our notes for reference while speaking, not to just have our head down and read from them. Unfortunately, I’m not going to be a great role model for that skill today. So, to the students here today or watching from home, do as I say, not as I do!
As teachers, we use data to inform much of what we do. Anthony loved analysing data. So, I’ve collected and collated data to share with you all today. I asked all the staff at school to share with me their thoughts around two things: what aspects of Anthony’s leadership made him a great boss and how did he support you? I wasn’t sure how much data those two questions would garner. Well, the response was overwhelming. From the small team of 10 staff, I had nearly 10 A4 pages of glowing tributes which simply speaks volumes of the man Anthony was.
What stood out from the data was the time and effort Anthony invested in creating relationships with his staff and students, and putting teacher health and well-being first, knowing this would in turn, make us all better teachers and improve the learning outcomes of our students.
Sharon said: Anthony was always happy to join in with a class, including the preps. He would regularly come in, sit with the kids and participate in activities. He would volunteer to take the class if you had an appointment. Anthony was the principal every small school should have. He tried to take the burdens of being a small-school teacher off everyone else. Giving himself all the extra jobs to do. We had to fight him for yard duties because he had put himself on for so many. He wanted us to have time together in the staffroom.
Michelle said: He would always acknowledge and be grateful for the work I did. He was always thanking me, even for the tiniest things. If he asked how I was, he genuinely was interested in my response. It wasn’t just a figure of speech. He always made sure that I wasn’t over doing things and had a genuine care for my wellbeing. Each morning we always started the day with at least a 20-minute chat. About anything and everything. I bloody miss that!
Kim said: Anthony would often check in and ask are you OK?, but he really did mean it, he would then take the time to listen for an answer and be genuinely interested in your response. He was excellent at documenting a thanks to staff and ensuring that successes and efforts by staff were acknowledged. He noticed the ‘small’ not so important things and commented.
Cindy wanted me to point out Anthony’s positive attitude, welcoming nature, open door policy and community spirit. Cindy said: he was very inclusive and always respected and wanted to hear my point of view. He also encouraged me to take on more challenging work and was prepared to support me in whatever way he could.
Anne-Maree said: Anthony had a leadership style based on clear communication and listening to his staff. You always knew that his door was open and he was never too busy to make time to chat about how to teach a topic, deal with a student or just provide advice. You knew that he always had your back and that you could rely on him to support you through both professional and personal difficulties. Anthony always stressed the importance of work life balance and making sure that we put ourselves and our families first.
Alison said: I still clearly remember the first week Anthony arrived at our school. I remember how very happy he seemed to be in his new role and how engaging he was with our students. He was so kind and caring and straight away you got the feeling he had your back. He came to us at the perfect time. He was so empathetic, and compassionate and valued every single one of us and what we brought to the school. He was dedicated to our little school community, and we couldn’t have asked for a better leader to guide and support us through the Pandemic which for all of us, was possibly the most difficult time we’ve ever experienced in our lives.
In an effort to keep this speech upbeat, I asked staff for some amusing anecdotes about Anthony’s time at our school.
Helen had this to say about when covid hit: Anthony and I sat at either ends of the staffroom table, socially distancing, and planned our next move. It felt like we were part of a dynamic duo, except neither of us wore capes. Instead, Anthony had a nifty backpack filled with disinfectant! He diligently applied it to doors, playground equipment and anything else that could cause trouble. There were highs and lows as everyone knows. We developed a bit of an obsession with Covid numbers- seeing whether Baw Baw was in the lead or Latrobe. It was quite the competition and we wouldn’t even blink nowadays at numbers so low. However, it got us through. Whatever was thrown at him, be it paperwork so that we could travel to work or disinfectant, he never once faltered. It was a privilege to be part of his team. He was indeed a superhero- just no cape!
Alison said: I always got the giggles when he came out on Yard Duty. You would be certain to hear the Denis the Menace catchcry “Hey, Mr. Wiiiiilson!”
One of Anthony’s vices was diet coke. If Anthony was drinking a diet coke, the hard stuff, you knew he was having a tough day. Cindy shared this anecdote: On any particularly busy day, when I could tell he was having to jump from task to task, and if I was heading to pick up the mail I would say ‘Is it a diet coke day?’ It always made him smile and if he thought so he would give me money or even his bank card to get him a diet coke from the general store. Anthony always looked for the positive side of things, even when he was having those terrible headaches last year. One was so bad we agreed I would call Fiona to pick him up, and due to her commitments she was unable to, but sent his parents up to the school. Anthony joked that it was funny to still be picked up from school by your parents when you are his age.
And finally, this anecdote from Sharon: An interesting lesson Anthony had to teach was the ‘how to use the urinal lesson’ for the prep boys. Anthony thought I was joking when I first said that I would need him to talk to the boys about the urinal, which I wasn’t. The lesson involved Anthony talking to the boys about where to stand when at the urinal and especially not to play in it. He did the lesson and must have done a great job because I never had any reports of the boys playing in it.
That urinal lesson is no joke! I had to step in and give that lesson at the start of the year in Anthony’s absence… its tough!!
The final data I gathered was from the students. I asked the 46 Grade 3-6 students to record their 3 favourite things about Mr Wilson. Here’s a snapshot of the words they used: friendly, nice, always smiling, welcoming, made us feel safe, funny, kind, happy, caring, easy to talk to, positive, helpful, played games with us at recess and made us feel special.
Now, Anthony would want this data analysed and broken down so here goes:
• 70% said Mr Wilson was nice/kind/caring.
• 56% said he was always welcoming/easy to talk to/made them smile.
• 41% said Mr Wilson was friendly/funny/happy.
• 30% said it was great Mr Wilson played games with them at recess.
• 20% said he made them feel safe or more positive about themselves.
• 20% said Anthony was helpful
• 100% had no problems at all in writing 3 nice things to describe Mr Wilson.

Anthony had a tremendous positive impact on the staff, students and community in his short time as principal of Willow Grove Primary School. He will forever be remembered with nothing but fond memories, of which I was lucky enough to share just a snapshot of those with you all today. To Fiona, and the rest of Anthony’s family, I say thank you for letting us spend time with this wonderful man.

Anthony was the perfect boss. He put teacher health and wellbeing number 1 on his priority list, knowing that would in turn improve our ability to teach and improve student learning.
As Sally Woodroffe and I struggled through our IVF journey, he was with us every step of the way. Always supportive. Always happy to chat. Always someone who would listen and help any way he could. Outside of our parents, he was the only other person who knew when we finally got pregnant. As we battled through the unknown and nervous times of the first 12 weeks, he was there for us. For me.
I am so glad that we were able to catch up with Anthony and his wife for a coffee about 6 weeks ago, giving Anthony a chance to meet Xavier in person for the first time.’d like to pass my condolences on to Anthony’s wife, Fiona Milkins, all his children and his closest friends.
Thank you for everything Anthony. ❤️

Such great memories of our time spent together in the U.K. From a most welcome tin of Milo, to times together in Bath and Brighton, games of Yahtzee and, of course, the wonderful Nunhead band! What a privilege to spend this time together and get to know this wonderful man all those years ago. We were blessed to be able to share in the celebration of his life on Friday. Fiona, Aaron, Grace and Caleb, our thoughts and prayers are with you as you continue to travel this journey. May God uphold you and may you be very aware of His presence and comfort in these difficult days. Much love from Mark, Kylie & Eva xx

Anthony, your Uncle Colin and I were so proud of you and all you achieved through a life too short. We always took pleasure and pride in hearing of the next step you took on your life journey.

You had so many beautiful similarities in personality passed down the generations from your Pop and then Uncle Colin.

It seemed destined that Uncle Colin and you passed exactly six months to the day apart.

Much much love and deepest sympathy to Marilyn, Stuart, Serena, Fiona, Aaron, Grace and Caleb.

Lyn Younger

The world has definitely lost one of life’s true gentlemen.
Our loss is heaven’s gain!
Thinking of you all and sending so much love and heartfelt sympathy.
May the love you share with family and friends as well as your treasured memories of such an amazing man give you the strength you need to face each and every day.
Rest Easy Anthony….such a pleasure to know you!
All my love
Shell xo 😘

We were so sad and very sorry to hear of Anthony’s passing. Sending our deepest condolences to Fiona, Aaron, Grace, Caleb and family. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Anthony always had a lovely smile for everyone.
1Thessalonians 4:17
Sue, Tony and Nathan Staley

I remember when I was a kid and Mr. Wilson was my science teacher.
He was always a very engaging teacher and gave us the opportunity to learn in an environment that wasn’t boring or lifeless.
I particularly remember him being very angry with me one day because I ate the cookie he had just dropped in to liquid nitrogen hahahaha I went to say sorry and a thick cloud of nitrogen blew in his direction which did not impress him as much as it impressed me hahahaha
We lost a great one here.
Have the rest of the righteous Mr. Wilson.