Cypress Pointe Fire & Rescue mourns the passing of Retired Fire Chief Tony Sassano.
Chief Sassano served with honor and dedication at the Circle V (Vass) Fire Department, where he held the ranks of Captain, Assistant Chief, and ultimately retired as the full-time Fire Chief in 2009. His retirement came just prior to the merger of Circle V Fire Department, Cameron Fire Department, and Vass Rescue Squad, which formed Cypress Pointe Fire & Rescue.

Tony was both a volunteer and a career firefighter — truly a firefighter’s firefighter. He approached the job with pride and professionalism, but he also brought levity and laughter even during the most challenging times. Known for his quick wit and practical jokes, Tony had a unique ability to lift spirits and strengthen the bond among his fellow firefighters.

He loved the fire service, and more importantly, he loved the people in it. His presence brought camaraderie and joy to every station he walked into.

Chief Sassano’s legacy will live on in the memories of those who served alongside him and in the community he so faithfully protected.

Please see Chief Sassano's Obituary Below:

Tony C. Sassano, 63, of Vass, NC passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at FirstHealth Hospice House in Pinehurst.

Tony was born May 8, 1962, in Brooklyn, NY to the late Josephine Gelardo Sassano. He was raised in Brooklyn and later moved to Florida where he met his wife, Kim. They were married in South Carolina and resided in Vass, NC. Tony served as Fire Chief for the Vass Fire Department for 37 years and loved serving his community. He enjoyed deer hunting and fishing. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Kim Sassano; daughter, Samantha Munar (Chris) and two grandchildren, Luke and Isabella Munar; brother, Donato Sassano, and two sisters, Donna Marie McGee (Joe) and Diane Sassano.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Josephine Sassano.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Boles Funeral Home, 425 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387. Burial will follow at Pinelawn Memorial Park, 1105 Morganton Road, Southern Pines, NC 28387.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations in Tony’s name be made to the American Cancer Society https://donate.cancer.org

Services entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines.

To send flowers to the family of Tony, please visit our floral store.