Antoine Elias Soueidi

Antoine Elias Soueidi, or "Tony," from the time of his birth, has been Shepherded by the Lord Jesus.

On July 29, 1937, born the second son of Elias Joseph Soueidi and Habouba (Aimee) Asmar Soueidi, he was the answer to the devout prayers of his parents. Their entire lives, Tony strove to bring honor and comfort to them both and his whole family. In his early 20s, Tony realized he had to go abroad to "build his future," and he was led to Liberia, West Africa. Teaching himself English and working diligently with integrity and honor, he rose to a prominent position in the business community in Monrovia. In 1969, the missionary family of John and Isabel Anderson came to Liberia as Bible Translators and, by 1970, their daughter, Christina, and Tony had wed.

Over the years, God was good and, in 1974, the family immigrated to the USA. In 1979, Tony proudly became a Naturalized American citizen, having chosen to make Billings their home of choice. Tony first partnered in a restaurant business, then Baron's Jewelry downtown, and ultimately his hopes and dreams were fulfilled by opening his own store, Tony Soueidi Jewelers in 1991, until retiring in 2016. Working along with his wife, Christina, he devoted himself to service, integrity and excellence. Comprehending that his blessings abounded from God, Tony showed his gratefulness by sharing back to the Montana and Wyoming communities whenever he could.

Not only did the Good Shepherd bless Tony in his work and business, but in his children as well. First son, Mark Antoine, completing his Doctoral degree in Music at Indiana U, comes home most months when he performs with the Billings Symphony Orchestra as Principal Trombonist. Second son, Elie John, a PA with the Billings Clinic/Orthopedics and his wife, Alisha have given them four grandchildren: Sydney Marie, Harrison Elias, Macalister John, Ella Grace, who have provided blessed purpose to life and such family joy. Third son, Joseph Andre, an attorney with Moulton Bellingham, was married June 2017 to Nathalie Warren, on her family ranch, bringing great rejoicing to the entire family.

A gifted handyman and enthusiastic, prolific gardener, Tony's greatest love has been his family. The example of their immigrant father's work ethics, integrity, respect, sacrifice, generosity, love for family, and devout faith in God, continually guides his sons, and blesses his wife.

After valiantly battling a form of leukemia for seven months, Tony went victoriously to be with his Savior, the Good Shepherd, on Saturday afternoon, January 13, 2018. In countless, wonderful ways Tony impacted the lives of so many and he will be missed beyond measure. May his memory be eternal.

A vigil service will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave. Services will be at 12 noon Thursday, Jan. 18, at St. Patrick Co-Cathedral, 215 N. 31st St.