Anthony Melia

Anthony F. "Tony" Melia Jr., known to family and friends simply as Tony, passed away peacefully at his home in West Hollywood, California, on May 13, 2026, at the age of 92.

Born on September 3, 1933, Tony was the son of Anthony Melia Sr. and Hazel Melia. He grew up in Gretna, Nebraska, the third of twelve children in a large and close-knit family whose roots in Nebraska stretch back to the state's earliest settlement years.

As a young man, Tony attended the University of Nebraska, initially studying theater before proudly serving his country in the United States Army. Following his military service, he returned to the University of Nebraska and completed his studies in Business Administration while working multiple jobs to help pay his way through school.

In 1957, Tony moved to Los Angeles and began what would become a remarkable 54-year career in the insurance industry. In 1968, he founded National Business Insurance Agency, building a respected business and lifelong reputation for integrity, professionalism, and service. He earned the prestigious Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation and became a mentor to countless insurance professionals throughout his career.

Tony's impact extended far beyond his business accomplishments. He became deeply involved in the civic and cultural life of West Hollywood, serving two terms as President of the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and spending more than a decade on its Board of Governors. He was twice honored with the Chamber's Lifetime Achievement Award. Tony was also a founding member and Board member of the West Hollywood Convention and Visitors Bureau, now known as Visit West Hollywood, and was active in numerous community organizations dedicated to improving the city he loved.

While Tony achieved tremendous professional success, those who knew him best understood that his greatest gift was the way he invested in people. He was a trusted mentor, loyal friend, generous supporter, and source of wisdom to many. He had an extraordinary ability to encourage others, offer practical advice, and help people see opportunities within challenges. His guidance shaped countless lives and careers.

Family was especially important to Tony. Following the death of his sister, Maureen Hendricks, he welcomed her sons, Michael and Patrick Hendricks, into his life and home. He became a loving father figure, mentor, and steady source of support to them throughout their lives. The bond they shared remained one of the most meaningful relationships of Tony's life.

Tony embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He loved opera and maintained season tickets to multiple venues throughout California. He enjoyed theater, travel, cruises, exceptional restaurants, books, backgammon, music, and spending time with friends and family. He was also known for his unique collection of frogs, which reflected both his personality and sense of humor.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony Melia Sr. and Hazel Melia; infant brother Patrick; brothers Richard and James; and sisters Maureen Hendricks and Ann Fiala.

He is survived by his sister Mary Bertrand of Washington; sister Margaret Ross of Gretna, Nebraska; brother Donald of Blackburn, Virginia; brother Bernard (Anna) of Papillion, Nebraska; brother Charles of Omaha, Nebraska; and brother Peter (Ellen) of La Vista, Nebraska.

He is also survived by his loving nephews Michael Hendricks and Patrick Hendricks, along with many other nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, professional colleagues, and countless individuals whose lives were enriched by his friendship, guidance, and generosity.

Tony will be remembered as a brilliant mentor, devoted uncle, loyal friend, community leader, and role model. His kindness, generosity, vision, humor, and love of life touched generations of people. Though he will be deeply missed, his influence and legacy will continue through the many lives he helped shape and the countless memories he leaves behind.

Visitation and funeral services will be held at Roeder Mortuary, 11710 Standing Stone Drive, Gretna, Nebraska 68028. Visitation will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., with funeral services immediately following at 1:00 p.m.

Burial services will immediately follow the funeral and will be held at St. Thomas Calvary Cemetery, near 10176 South 240th Street, Gretna, Nebraska 68028. The historic cemetery has been the final resting place of generations of the Melia family dating back to Nebraska's early settlement years.

A Celebration of Life Luncheon will be held from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Gretna American Legion Post 216, 11690 South 216th Street, Gretna, Nebraska 68028. Food and refreshments will be provided.

In lieu of flowers, memorials and donations may be directed to the Gretna Public Library in memory of Anthony F. "Tony" Melia Jr.

Roeder Mortuary, Inc. - Gretna Chapel - 11710 Standing Stone - Gretna, NE - 402-332-0090

www.RoederMortuary.com