Anthony’s Way:
A Legacy of LoveAnthony’s Way is a nonprofit organization created in honor of our angel, Anthony DeBord, a bright light who brought joy, love, and compassion to everyone he met.
Forever in our hearts
Anthony had just turned 12 years old when he was called home to heaven on November 4, 2022, at 4:14 PM. A sudden allergic reaction to a treatment for parainfluenza caused an asthma-like attack that took his life. Though his time with us was far too short, the love and light he gave in those 12 years continue to ripple far and wide.
He left behind his loving parents and his younger twin siblings, as well as many others who were forever changed by knowing him.
“Although we may question why his life was cut so short, what we do not question is the impact and imprints he has left on the lives of all who knew him.”
We can keep Anthony alive in the kind acts we do for one another. The purpose of his nonprofit is to give back to the community that has so graciously walked this journey with us.
A Heart & Spirit Full of Love
Anyone who knew Anthony fell in love with his smile and heart. He showed love and compassion daily for others. If he saw you needed a friend, he was the first one to lift you up. He adored Jesus, his family, his siblings, his friends, baseball, dinosaurs, soccer, school, and especially Christmas. When the local radio station played continuous holiday music, it would blast from his bedroom nonstop.
He loved fiercely, laughed often, and never missed a moment to tell you he cared.
That was Anthony’s way: to make sure you knew you were loved.
Together, we turn grief into Giving
Losing Anthony has been the deepest sorrow we’ve ever known. But even in our grief, we have found moments of grace. We’ve discovered that through acts of kindness, his light keeps shining. And so, we made it our mission to continue his legacy by serving others, spreading love, and keeping Anthony’s beautiful spirit alive.
We may never fully understand why Anthony’s earthly journey ended so soon. But what we do know, with complete certainty, is that he made an impact greater than many make in a lifetime. Every scholarship given, every act of service, every toy delivered, every step toward healing and hope is a reflection of him.
Thank you for being here. For reading his story. For helping us carry forward his legacy of love.
Thank you for being here. For reading his story. For helping us carry forward his legacy of love.
The Gift of Life to save lives
Even in his passing, Anthony gave the most precious gift: the gift of life. Through Gift of Life, his heart, kidneys, liver, lungs, and pancreas were used to save others. That was who Anthony was — thoughtful, giving, and selfless to the very end.
The name “Anthony’s Way” reflects the way he lived, with love, compassion, and a light that still guides us. We walk this path now in his honor, trusting that he is watching over us, cheering us on, and shining through every good deed done in his name.
Anthony will forever be our hero on Earth and our angel in heaven. Let Anthony’s Legacy Live Through You
A Note From Anthony’s Loving Mother
“Losing a child is something no parent should ever have to endure. Losing Anthony was the most difficult experience of my life, and in the depths of that heartbreak, I knew I had to find a way forward.
For the sake of my twins, I chose to channel my grief into purpose—to give back, to serve, and to transform pain into something meaningful. In every act of kindness and every good deed, I see Anthony. He was pure light. When he passed, I vowed to do everything I could to make him proud. This foundation is that promise brought to life, keeping his legacy and light shining for years to come.”
-Carla
Anthony’s Story, Shared with the World
A Story of Love, Faith, and Light
13ABC
Mojo In the Morning
WXYZ Detroit