Major General John A "Tony" Studds

Major General John A. "Tony" Studds, USMC (Ret.), 80, was surrounded by family and friends at his home in Melbourne, FL when he passed away on May 10. Tony was born March 31, 1937 in Evanston, IL, the son of Rear Admiral R.F.A and Margaret (Milan) Studds, USC&GS (Ret.). He married the love of his life, Sybil Elizabeth Phelps, in August 1959 at St. Christopher Catholic Church in Hobe Sound, FL. Tony concluded his 33-year Infantry Officer career as the Commanding General of Marine Corps Recruit Depot/Western Recruiting Region, San Diego, CA. His most notable commendations include the Bronze Star with "V" for valor, Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, National Intelligence Medal of Achievement, and the Distinguished Service Medal, the Department of the Navy's highest peacetime award. Tony was an extremely generous man, a devoted Catholic, a true patriot, and a lover of life and family. He was deeply loved and respected, and he left an enduring mark on all who knew him. He will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife Sybil, his children Colonel Gregory and Sallie Studds, USMC (Ret.); Melanie and Major George Carlson, USA (Ret.); Geoffrey Studds; Melissa Studds, and grandchildren Caitlyn, Christopher, and Kassi. Tony will be interred with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Major General John A. Studds to The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.