Anthony D. Porter

Deacon Anthony Porter, at the age of 68, went to be with the Lord on January 22, 2025. 

He was born into the union of Alfred Porter and Ruby Lee Greene-Porter Walthour. 

Anthony was a member of St. Luke Baptist Church which later became Restored Life Ministries Church where he served as a Deacon, Benevolence Ministry Chaplain and the Restored Life Chair for as long as his health permitted. 

Anthony retired after 30 years from the Perkins Family Restaurant. 

Anthony leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Vanessa E. Porter; one daughter, Cashondia (Tony) Williams of Jacksonville, Florida; one step-daughter, Nichole Crowe of Springfield, Ohio; three step-sons, Mark Crowe of Springfield, Ohio, Anthony Crowe of Columbus, Ohio and Johnny Martin of Tallahassee, Tennessee; nine grandchildren; his biological mother, Ruby Lee Walthour; two sisters-in-law, four brothers-in-law, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Anthony Porter, Jr.; father, Louis Copeland, Sr.; adopted parents, Henry and Mary Johnson; aunts, uncles and two brothers-in-law. 

Anthony loved and cherished his family and loved being around people. Anyone who knew Anthony, knew his second love was the Cincinnati Bengals and attending church where you could always count on him getting his praise dance on!!! In fact, the very first time Anthony and Vanessa met, Anthony was dancing. 

Acknowledgement: The family of Anthony Porter acknowledges with sincere appreciation the many comforting messages, visits, flowers tributes and other expressions of kindness. 

A very special thank you to the Restored Life Ministry Church, Deacon and Minister Ministries for always being present. 

To Dr. Sanju Varghese for many countless visits, care and concern as well as going beyond the care of duty. 

To all of those who assisted in his daily care during his lengthy illness – especially his stepson, Mark Crowe, stepdaughter, Nichole Crowe, grandson, Biron Crowe, granddaughter, Jameela Crowe and special niece, Christine Davis. 

Visitation to honor Anthony will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 from 11am-12pm at Restored Life Ministries Church with a celebration of his life beginning at 12pm. Burial will follow at Ferncliff Cemetery.