Anthony Lucano, Jr

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Anthony Lucano, affectionately known as Junior to those who knew him best. Born on January 28, 1977, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Anthony's journey through life was marked by his unwavering love for family, his commitment to service, and his deep affinity for animals. He departed this world peacefully on April 26, 2026, at the age of 49. Raised in Philadelphia, Anthony moved to Cinnaminson, New Jersey, with his family in 1993. A proud graduate of Cinnaminson High School, class of 1996, he began his working life caring for animals at a local pet store named Zoo's, showcasing his natural connection with wildlife. His career took him in various directions, including a stint at bartending school, security work, and ultimately a calling to public service. It was at the Iguana Beach Club, where he worked as a bouncer, that he met Lynda Paknik, the love of his life in 1998. They married on July 19, 2003, and together they bought a home in Sewell, New Jersey. They later bought a new home in West Deptford, NJ where he and Lynda raised a family of two wonderful twin daughters. He had been a resident of St. Augustine since 2017. While supporting his new family, Anthony worked during the day and put himself through the police academy on nights and weekends, graduating in December 2004. He joined the police department at the University of Pennsylvania, where he served for over 13 years. Most recently he had been working as a school resource police officer for the Duval County School System at Westside Middle School where he became a beloved mentor to many students. Known for his compassionate nature, he used food bank resources to assist those in need and was known to have a stash of snacks, drinks, candy, and even clothing for the students in his office. Anthony's love for animals remained a constant throughout his life, and he was actively involved in animal rescue, even adopting a dog found on the interstate that was dumped and we later found out that she had been wounded by a gunshot. He also was involved with The Hurricane Response Team and traveled to Louisiana to assist in the recovery and rescue. His many interests in life included a passion for motorcycles and he was a member of the Rolling Badges Motorcycle Club. He was a car enthusiast and was tattooed with images that reflected the things he held dear. He savored the simple pleasures in life, including a good cigar, but more than anything, Anthony love his family and cherished the time he got to spend with them. Anthony is survived by his devoted wife of 23 years, Lynda Lucano; his twin daughters, Gianna Lucano and Gina Castellano and her husband Christian; his 5 dogs, his parents, Anthony and Kathleen Lucano; his sister, Jennifer Lucano and her fiance Keith Nemeth; his paternal grandmother, Mary Jane Lucano; his mother-in-law, Patricia Paknik, the entire Castellano family, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Steven Paknik. A celebration of Anthony's remarkable life with law enforcement honors will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at St. Johns Family Funeral Home. Please wear black and/or royal blue as a tribute to his love of law enforcement. In lieu of flowers please make donations to S.A.F.E. Pet Rescue. Anthony would have loved this idea. Those unable to attend can view the live-stream by going to: https://iframe.dacast.com/live/2a7a09ae1c0559a83ef537e05e6a14a6/0d926f14-3fd3-923f-c556-1f0bb777106f. St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Anthony Lucano, Jr

January 28, 1977 - April 26, 2026