Sangamon Sun

State Rep. Mike Murphy (R-Springfield) presented House Resolution 73 to honor the memory of former chief clerk of the Sangamon County Election Office, Anthony "Tony" J. Leone, Jr.

Murphy spoke about Leone's dedication as a public servant and local historian. 

“I rise today for House Resolution 73 which honors a gentleman who had a strong relationship with this chamber,” Murphy said. “Anthony ‘Tony’ Leone, a longtime public servant, local historian, and friend to the arts and tourism died early in the morning of Feb. 3, 2021. Tony was born in Springfield on Sept. 1, 1950. He graduated from Griffin High School and earned his associate's degrees from Springfield College and his bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois – Springfield.”

Early in his career, Leone worked for state Reps. Josephine Oblinger and Irv Smith. He was chosen to be the assistant clerk of the House in 1979 and served as chief clerk from 1981 to 1983.

“From 1983 to 1992 he finished out his duties with the House as assistant clerk,” Murphy continued. “My sister was part of the staff during many of those years and talks very highly of him. During this time, he also served on the board of the legislative information system which was created to computerize the general assembly.”

However, among many more accomplishments, Leone’s lasting legacy, according to Murphy, was restoring the 125-year-old Pasfield House which opened in 2002 as a bed and breakfast and has hosted many special events. The inn, as Murphy described, is “filled with art, antiques, rare books and historical memorabilia” reflecting Leone’s many interests and talents that “underscored his well-deserved reputation as an expert on Springfield's early history and the love of his state and country.” 

Apart from these, the state representative was also proud of Leone’s work as an author.

“In 2019, Tony co-authored 'Springfield's Celebrated Horseshoe Sandwich' book, which I hold in my hand, and after this was published, I always introduced Tony as my favorite author,” he said. “That's why, if you ever get a chance to read this book, I ask you to go to pages 28, 37, and 80, where he was so gracious in mentioning me and my efforts in promoting the horseshoe. Tony was buried on Feb. 12, Lincoln's birthday, which was so fitting. I, like many others around the state, have been blessed to have known Tony and to be able to call him a friend. I, like many others, will miss him dearly. Especially his longtime special friend Kathy Crago. I request your support this resolution and I also request a moment of silence to honor the life of Tony Leone.”

Leone also served in the Sangamon County Board of Review and as a chief clerk of the Sangamon County Election Office.

House Resolution 73 was adopted at the House.

Reps. Greg Harris (D-Chicago), Tom Weber (R-Antioch), and Dan Brady (R-Towanda) are chief co-sponsors of the resolution.