Anthony Hairston

Minister Anthony L. Hairston, 55, earned his wings on Saturday, November 18, 2023. Anthony was born in Columbus, Ohio on June 8, 1968, and was adopted at the age of 3 by Moses and Louise (Reynolds) Hairston.

Anthony is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 17 years, Quanda Hairston (Irvine); children, Miles Anthony and Sydney Michelle; mother-in-law, Yvonne Irvine; father-in-law, Charles (Carol) Irvine; brothers-in-law, Sidney Irvine and Kennon McDavis; sisters-in-law, Yolanda Patterson and Kimberlyn McDavis; birth mother, Karen Millsap; brothers Allen and Andre Millsap; sister Kenitha Smalls; nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Moses and Louise Hairston. Also, grandparents Benjamin and Hope Hairston and Walter and Louise Reynolds.

At a young age, Anthony became a martial artist and won several competitions while studying and practicing the art of Kung Fu. He holds a 3rd-degree black belt and the instructor rank of Sifu.

Tony graduated from Linden McKinley High School and earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Business Administration from The Ohio State University. He began working during high school and had over 37 years of service with the State of Ohio.

One of Tony’s biggest accomplishments was accepting his call to be a minister of the Gospel. He was most comfortable when teaching and preaching the word of God and ran toward any opportunity to share his faith with others. Many were touched by Minister Tone’s ability to take the Word and apply it to everyday life. His teachings and advice touched so many that he came in contact with. Tony served as an Associate Minister at Love Zion Baptist Church and leader of the World Changers Youth Ministry alongside his wife. Previously he also served on the Nurse’s Ministry, in the choir, as a Fulfillment Hour Shepard, Bible Study teacher, and as a Vacation Bible School coordinator and teacher.

On June 17, 2006, Anthony married his best friend Quanda Irvine whom he affectionately named “Q”. Tony wanted nothing more than to be a father. In 2007 and 2014 respectively, Tony and Q welcomed their son Miles Anthony, and their daughter Sydney Michelle, who were the most important part of his life.

Always having a strong sense of brotherhood, Tony became a Mason in February 2019. He was a member of Successful Lodge No. 17 where he served as Chaplain.

Anthony didn’t know any strangers. He would introduce himself if he didn’t know you by saying, “They call me Big Tone, but I don’t know why.” His personality was larger than life and he loved to make people laugh. He will truly be missed by all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at Love Zion Baptist Church located at 1459 Madison Ave., Columbus, Ohio. The viewing will begin at 10:00 am and the service will begin at 11:00 am.