Anthony J. Vraim, known to most as Tony, a longtime funeral director at Vraim Funeral Home in Upper Darby and a familiar presence in Delaware County’s Greek-American life, passed away suddenly on May 20, 2026, at his home in Atlantic City, New Jersey. He was 77.
Born Anthony J. Vraimopoulos on July 11, 1948, he was the son of the late John and Christina Matsios Vraimopoulos. He grew up with a strong sense of American patriotism and Greek-American identity, and he made sure his children understood the family history that shaped them. He told them about earlier generations who fought for freedom in Greece, came to the United States, and built businesses in Wildwood, Philadelphia, and Delaware County.
Tony spent his early years in Philadelphia before his father moved the family to Upper Darby, where Vraim Funeral Home would become central to his life’s work. From its location at 66 S. State Road, he served families across the region for decades. His work reached well beyond Greek-American families. He also built lasting ties with Armenian and Albanian families, communities that welcomed him and with whom he felt at home.
A graduate of Upper Darby High School, Tony was active and accomplished as a student. He wrestled, competed in gymnastics, and sang in the choir. He went on to attend Temple University and the American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service. After completing his studies, he returned to the funeral home to work with his father. He also served as Delaware County Coroner, and in 1979, officially took over the family business. He devoted the next forty years to funeral service, guiding families through moments of loss. During that chapter of his life, he and his first wife, Michele, began raising their family.
Tony had an active mind and a wide range of interests. He read constantly, valued learning, and was fluent in multiple languages. He enjoyed sharing what he knew, especially with children. He spoke at local schools, volunteered as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader, and was always ready for questions from his grandchildren. They knew he would answer with a story, an explanation, or a lesson drawn from experience.
His life was filled with water, motion, music, and adventure. He loved scuba diving, skiing, surfing, sailing, camping, traveling, classical music, opera, and riding his BMW motorcycle. He often brought his sons into the things he loved, turning his interests into shared memories.
A later chapter of his life opened through theater, where he met Jennifer Smith, who became his wife. The two supported each other in productions and later helped found a theater group in their Brigantine, New Jersey, community. In retirement, they settled in Atlantic City, traveled together, and fulfilled Tony’s dream of living on the water.
Tony remained closely connected to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Upper Darby, where he served as parish council president and choir director. He was also a past president of AHEPA. As a Merchant Mariner, he earned a master captain’s license and avidly supported several veterans’ organizations.
Those closest to Tony knew him as a man of principle. He taught his sons through words, but even more through example. He believed in helping others, acting with generosity, and giving people assistance when they needed it. That example remains part of what he leaves to his family.
Tony is survived by his wife, Jennifer Smith; his sons, Michael and his wife Jennifer, and David and his wife Amber; and his grandchildren, Gabriella, Anthony John “AJ,” Lila, and Emily. He is also survived by his sister, Connie Matty, and her husband, Ken; several nieces and nephews; brothers and sisters-in-law; and Albert LaBriccioso and his wife, Lori. Albert worked beside Tony for thirty years and became like a brother to him.
Colleagues in funeral service are invited to a visitation on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 6 to 7 p.m. at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 229 Powell Lane, Upper Darby, PA 19082. Public visitation will follow from 7 to 9 p.m.
A second visitation will be held at the church on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m.
Burial at sea will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations in Tony’s name be made to one’s church or to a charitable organization of choice. They also ask that, in his memory, people consider offering help to someone in their life who may need it.