Anthony Wayne "Tony" Northern

Anthony Wayne Northern, known affectionately as Tony to his family and friends, passed away on March 13, 2026, at his home in Sikeston, Missouri, at the age of 70. Born on February 26, 1956, in Sikeston, he was the son of the late Roy Northern and Nora Moss-Northern.

Tony’s connection to the Miner Fire Department began as a young boy of five, accompanying his father, the chief, and he officially joined the department in 1970. He remained an active firefighter on the rolls for the rest of his life and faithfully served as the department’s chaplain. He worked at Amco Machine and Fabrication from 1991 until 2015. A devoted member of Smith Avenue Church, Tony gave generously of his time through custodial work, kitchen duties, and youth ministry. He found great joy in drawing and, above all, cherished time spent with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

On November 29, 1991, Tony married Nancy O’Neal-Northern, who survives him at the family home in Sikeston. He is also survived by his son, Eric Northern of Mountain View, Missouri; his daughter, Heather Northern (Demetrish Williams) of Oran, Missouri; three sisters, JoAnn Northern of Dexter, Missouri, Paula Shaver of Miner, Missouri, and Tammie (Dave) Bennett of Cameron, North Carolina; his grandchildren, Bralynn Morgan, Milie McClendon, Devonta Williams, Charlee Northern, Ellee Northern, and one on the way, Demetria Williams; and many other loving family members and fire department colleagues who will miss him deeply.