Anthony Carter Gianessi

Anthony Carter Gianessi was a bright light in the lives of his loved ones. Born on August 13, 2014, in Morgantown, WV, Anthony's vibrant spirit and contagious smile brought joy to every day. Sadly, he passed away on June 8, 2024, at WVU Medicine Children’s, leaving a legacy of warmth and cherished memories.

Anthony was the beloved son of mother Mary Elizabeth Selby & her partner Josh Dalton of Morgantown, & father David André Gianessi, II of Weirton, WV. His family's love for him was immense, including Savannah & Christian Dalton & his maternal grandparents, Dr. Joseph & Joan Selby of Morgantown; paternal grandparents David Gianessi of Weirton, WV, & Edythe Gianessi of North Carolina; & maternal great-grandmother, Mary Twigg of Cumberland, MD. Anthony was a source of endless happiness for his aunts & uncles - William Selby & fiancée Klair Siciliano of Newport, RI, Thomas Selby of Pittsburgh, Donald Gianessi of Illinois, Samson Gianessi serving in the US Army in Germany, Sharon Gianessi of SC, Seth Gianessi of NY, & Dazja Gianessi of HI. His numerous playmates & friends, will forever feel his absence.

Anthony was a student at Mountainview Elementary, where he was already known for his awesome shoes and infectious laugh. His next educational adventure would have been starting fourth grade this fall.

Anthony's interests captured the essence of childhood wonder and joy. His laugh was a sound nobody could forget, and his love for Taylor Swift's music was well-known. He had a natural exuberance, whether he was playing, swinging, or swimming. With other children, he was happiest, his heart as wide and open as his embrace. Anthony shared his love for video games with his dad, finding comfort and excitement in their digital worlds.

While Anthony's dance moves were uniquely his own, they were a dance of strength and vitality. He enjoyed t-ball and various other sports activities thanks to the Stepping Stones organization, and though he sometimes playfully fabricated tantrums or sleep to communicate his dislikes, he did so with an endearing flair. Anthony was also skilled with puzzles and found delight in the magic of pop-up books. His need for speed was a testament to his desire to experience life fully, and his love for snuggles and attention was a testament to his deep connections with those around him.

Anthony lived his life with an intensity that was both inspiring and moving. While his time with us was far too short, the joy he brought to the world & the lessons he taught us will not be forgotten. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those he touched, reminding us all to embrace life with the same enthusiasm and love that Anthony did every single day.

Family and friends will gather at the Fred Jenkins Funeral Home on Friday, June 14, 2024, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM and again on Saturday, June 15, 2024, from 10 AM until the time of services at 11 AM. Anthony will rest at the East Oak Grove Cemetery.

Flowers will be graciously accepted or please consider a donation in memory of Anthony to SteppingStones, 400 Mylan Park Lane Morgantown, WV 26501. Additionally, donations can be made via Venmo-@SteppingStoneswv or PayPal-abilitywv@gmail.com.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the teachers, aides, and staff of Mountainview Elementary for the special care, inclusion, and love Anthony received during his time in school. Additionally the family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, therapists, and staff at WVU Children’s Hospital and WVU Neuro-Development Center who helped care for Anthony throughout his life and especially during his final days