Tony Barbone and his beloved wife were together for over four decades and were proud parents of two daughters, Jennifer and Ashley.
Tony Barbone, aka Bones, was the legendary former coach of Azusa Pacific baseball.
He had an impressive coaching career, winning 516 games over 16 seasons at Azusa Pacific and securing eight GSAC titles.
His coaching journey also included time at Concordia University, where he won 109 games between 2004 and 2007.
Beyond baseball, he held various administrative roles, including assistant athletic director at Concordia and athletic director at Pasadena City College.
Moreover, his dedication to sports extended beyond coaching. In 1983, he contributed to high school athletics and led Azusa High School to a CIF championship.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐭 𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭.
— APUCougars (@APUCougars) April 14, 2025
Azusa Pacific Athletics mourns the passing of legendary Cougar baseball Head Coach Tony Barbone. pic.twitter.com/AMNgW9Hd1P
Barbone battled serious health challenges, including cancer and a brain stem tumor.
However, he remained dedicated to his work, receiving treatment while serving as the Director of Athletics at Pasadena City College.
Tragically, Barbone passed away at the age of 71 on April 13, 2025. He was surrounded by his loved ones in his final moments, including his wife, Beth, and daughters, Jennifer and Ashley.
Tony Barbone’s Wife, Beth, Stood By Him Throughout His Coaching Career And Battle With Health CHallenges!
Beth Barbone is the wife of Tony Barbone, the legendary baseball coach and athletic director.
She has been a strong pillar of support throughout Tony’s career and battle with health challenges.
Beth and Tony have two daughters, Jennifer and Ashley, and they are also proud grandparents to Cora and Calvin Tanzillo and Camden and Mia Mercado.
The beautiful couple met in 1980, and they went on a date at an LA Dodgers game, where they instantly connected.
After a few weeks, Beth invited Tony to an Angels game. It was their second date, a moment Tony fondly recalled, saying,
The tickets weren’t good, but the company I kept was the best.
Tony and Beth had been together for almost 45 years before his passing in 2025.
In those decades, they raised their two daughters, Jennifer and Ashley, creating a strong and supportive family.
Coach Tony’s passing has left a void in the hearts of many who knew him.
Former players, colleagues, and friends admired his leadership, dedication, and lasting impact on their lives.
Many described him as a mentor who shaped not only their baseball careers but also their personal growth.
Gary Pine, the APU Director of Athletics, said:
Tony Barbone brought a rare mix of wit, wisdom, and competitive fire to the dugout, You always knew the Cougars had a shot to win when Bones and his #2 jersey was in the dugout. His presence inspired confidence, and his legacy continues to shape the DNA of Cougar Baseball.
Similarly, NAIA Hall of Famer Cliff Hamlow described him as an excellent teacher, saying:
Tony was a players’ coach, He was an excellent teacher, demanding, while creating a solid team concept. He had an excellent baseball mind. Opponents respected his management of the game. He helped his student-athletes become grown men and in doing that was a man of faith. His humor was enjoyed by all.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Coach Tony Barbone’s family, friends, and well-wishers.
Rest In Peace, Legend!
