Anthony had been on my mind for the past 4 weeks and I wanted to stop by his shop for advice on my hair and possible get some work done. I finally stopped by his shop last week and was floored and taken aback by the news. As a sales executive I work in Montclair from January thru August. The first time I walked into Anthony's shop was about 5 years ago and we talked like we knew each other for years. He was always so warm and I would always waved if I saw him sitting outside. Our last conversation was the week of Prince's death. Anthony was a super fan of Prince and he shared with me that he had everyone of Prince's records. He really loved Prince and did not want to believe that drugs could have contributed to his death. Well this last conversation I had with Anthony lasted 3 hours! Unbeknownst to me that it would be our last conversation. I will always remember him as being such a lovely, warm person. Rest in peace.

RIP Anthony. You were one of the best hair stylist in NJ.

I had just starting going back to a salon after years of not being able to afford the luxury. Anthony had done my hair a few times in the past, so I chose to return to his shop in June 2016 to treat myself. I will miss him dearly. He was a person with talent and an inspiring spirit. RIP

I was away from home (on Midland Ave.) since the end of June and was so very sorry and shocked to see the gathering memorial outside of Anthony's salon today. I have lived down the street for nearly 20 yrs. and so, like so many others in Montclair, became a passing friend. I always enjoyed hearing about the latest book he was reading or how his family was doing. My last conversation with him was about his decision to cut his hair. He said his son had decided first and it seemed "no big deal" so he cut his, too. He said he was still really enjoying being able to pull a shirt over his head without having to gather up all of his hair!

I will miss seeing his quiet, smiling presence sitting outside his shop. I hope you and all his family and friends find comfort in the knowledge that he touched so many people's lives with just a word and a smile.

I have known Anthony for 15 years. He was a kind, giving and jovial man. he made everyone feel special. I will miss him dearly.

I have known Anthony for most of my life. We grew in Revival Temple together as kids, then young adults. Anthony was funny and talented and could dress like nobodys business. I was Anthony's prom date as well. I could write a book about how great of a guy Anthony was. We laughed together, cries together acted a fool together. I brought my son to his shop to meet him on last year, although Anthony and I had not seen each other in years you couldn't tell because we were so happy to see each other. He welcomed my son with open arms. Anthony will be missed. Im sure there's a party where you are Buddy!

I met Anthony when I was in 7th grade, and he watched me mature into young adulthood. Anthony is one of the most selfless, funniest, and genuine people I've had the pleasure of knowing and he will be greatly missed. He was so talented at doing hair, and would always go above and beyond for his clients. Although he is in a better place, I will miss him dearly, and I send my condolences to the Coppedge family. Rest in paradise, Anthony.

Anthony was one of the first people I met when I moved to Montclair. I will most remember how kindly he treated me when I had to bring along my 1 year old daugther to hair appointments. He was such a warm spirit and will truly be missed.

Mr. Anthony was such a great person. I had only really just started to know him before he was called home. His salon was filled with customers who had known Mr. Anthony for years, if not for decades. My mother said that this was a good sign, that this loyalty set him apart. He will be missed by so many, missed and remembered.