Jacob Ray “J.R.” Anton

Jacob Ray “J.R.” Anton

May 1, 1993 – May 6, 2024

Jacob was known as J. R. by his friends and family. J.R. loved to work in the yard and could always be found outside mowing, edging, weeding, or watering. J.R. loved his landscaping: setting stone for a border and planting flowers or plants. He was always so proud of his yard.

J.R. loved North Carolina baseball. He was their #1 fan and always wore North Carolina blue. J.R. and his mother enjoyed traveling to Chapel Hill for a week. There, J.R. would stay with the players: going to classes, eating, practicing, and suiting up as batboy for their games. Both the players and coaches loved and respected J. R. for who he was. This inspired J.R. and gave him pride; J.R. loved them like family.

J.R. is loved by many friends and family and he will be missed very much.

J.R. is preceded in death by his grandparents, Fred and Helen Wilson; grandfather, Walter R. Anton; cousin, Joshua Amick. He is survived by his parents, Walter and Kim Anton; brother, Walter III “Robbie”; many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Please wear North Carolina Blue in his memory.

VISITATION: Thursday, May 9th, from 5 to 7 p.m., at West Center Chapel, 7805 W. Center Rd.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Make-A-Wish.

83 Comments

  • The Austin Family Posted May 8, 2024 11:12 am

    JR brightened up every room he walked in! He was such a sweet friend and will be greatly missed!! We love you Anton Family and are here if you need anything!!

    • Carl White Posted June 17, 2024 8:06 am

      My sincere condolences but as I sit here crying like a baby I am proud to be a Tar Heel and wish I could have met him. Go Heels!

  • Jesse Wierzbicki Posted May 8, 2024 12:59 pm

    JR means so much to our program. The week he comes each year is always a great one! He will be greatly missed but not forgotten. He’ll always be a Tar Heel. We are praying for your family.

  • Daniel Wilkerson Posted May 8, 2024 1:41 pm

    The week JR comes to visit in Chapel Hill are always exciting. You know when he is coming to town just by the excitement around the locker room. He means so much to our program and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

  • Gatz, Greg Posted May 8, 2024 2:49 pm

    I was an honored to meet J.R. through Carolina Baseball. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Rest in Peace.

  • Terri Jo Rucinski and REMINGTON Posted May 8, 2024 5:14 pm

    J.R. was a very special person, and I am blessed to have had the chance to get to know him and his family. J.R. was always happy and brought smiles and laughter to those around him. He would often hang out in the Athletic Training Room at the Bosh, giving REMINGTON lots of pets and claiming that REMI loved him more than any of the other players….and for the week he was in Chapel Hill I truly believe that was indeed the case. J.R. will be missed but his spirit will live on in the memories he created and the stories that will forever be shared among the Tar Heel baseball family.

  • Dallas Tessar Posted May 8, 2024 8:16 pm

    JR had a commitment to Carolina Baseball that was truly unmatched. His excitement he had to be around Carolina Baseball brought smiles to everyone. He will truly be missed and will be remembered as one of the most influential members in UNC Baseball history. Rest in Peace JR.

  • Kyle Datres Posted May 8, 2024 8:18 pm

    So sorry to hear about JR. He had an incredible impact on not only me but every guy in our locker room at UNC. I have so many great memories with him whether it be him coming to class with me, sleeping over at our house or just his chatter in the dugout during games! I’ll never forget seeing his face light up when we made it to Omaha in 2018! I will be keeping your family in my prayers!

  • Isaiah Bennett Posted May 8, 2024 8:22 pm

    ❤️❤️

  • Danny Serretti Posted May 8, 2024 8:24 pm

    JR was the best lil bro we could ask for. He was such a light to all the teams he’s been apart of. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family!

  • Josh Dotson Posted May 8, 2024 8:26 pm

    JR was truly an inspiration. I was fortunate enough to be around him at the field in which he never failed to put a smile on my face. JR looked up to us, but we looked up to him much more. My thoughts and prayers are with the Anton family.

  • Max Riemer Posted May 8, 2024 8:27 pm

    We could always look forward to a fun week when JR was in Chapel Hill. We could always count on him to bring some energy. He will be missed in that locker room without a doubt. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

  • Nik & Alexis Pry Posted May 8, 2024 8:29 pm

    JR is a true Tar Heel. He was an absolute joy to be around. He was the heartbeat of Carolina Baseball, and his visits every year were always a blessing. He will be missed but his memory will live on thru the countless lives he impacted & inspired. We will be praying for your family.

  • Eric Grintz Posted May 8, 2024 8:44 pm

    I am deeply saddened about the passing JR. He was such a cherished person within the UNC baseball community. My thoughts and prayers to JR’s family. He will be missed.

  • Max Carlson Posted May 8, 2024 8:49 pm

    JR was the man! I still remember talking to him for the first time in high school. He will be very greatly missed

  • Robert Woodard Posted May 8, 2024 8:59 pm

    J.R. will always be remembered as being such a special part of our teams. Always looked forward to seeing him in Omaha, and on his visits to Chapel Hill. Will be forever grateful for his and each of his family members support. Thoughts and prayers are with each of you.

  • Scott Jackson Posted May 8, 2024 9:24 pm

    Thank you JR for all the memories in Chapel Hill and Omaha! Your love and support for UNC players is incredible. We will miss you brother but know we will see you again one day.

    • Brandon Riley Posted May 9, 2024 7:45 am

      JR was such a special part of our program. His love and enthusiasm for Carolina Baseball was second to none. We will miss his visits to Chapel Hill but we will never forget his spirit. We are praying for your family.

  • Tyler Trice Posted May 9, 2024 5:29 am

    JR it goes without saying that God just revived a true Tar Heel. My teammates and I enjoyed getting to know you over the years and loved having you as a part of our program. While we will certainly miss seeing you and your family in Chapel Hill we know that you will be cheering on the Diamond Heels every game day. You’ll be in our thoughts and prayers always. Go Heels!

  • Garrett Davis Posted May 9, 2024 5:47 am

    JR’s spirit and energy was always so uplifting for the players and coaches when he was in Chapel Hill. He was and will always be the definition of a Tar Heel! We were all lucky to know him and he will be greatly missed! Prayers to his family.

  • Kyle Blendinger Posted May 9, 2024 5:47 am

    J.R. Was truly one of a kind and I will never forget the memories we share together in Chapel Hill and Omaha. We will all miss him deeply.

  • Korey Dunbar Posted May 9, 2024 6:05 am

    JR is as true of a Tarheel as they come! He will be greatly missed and never forgotten. He was a very important piece of our team and program. We cherished every moment we had with him. Thoughts and prayers are with your family.

  • Andrew Carignan Posted May 9, 2024 6:26 am

    So sorry to hear about J.R. He made such a lasting impression on all of the teams that were lucky enough to spend time with him. Thinking about you all during this difficult time.

  • Scott Forbes Posted May 9, 2024 6:47 am

    J.R.,
    Thank you for making such a difference in so many lives. You are a Tar Heel and we will miss you so much. Your love and support for our players and UNC baseball will never be forgotten! I know you are looking down on us. I will miss you and will see you again one day. Love and Prayers to all of you.

  • Bryant Gaines Posted May 9, 2024 6:52 am

    JR was such a blessing to so many people, and his memory will live on forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Anton family.

  • Michael Busch Posted May 9, 2024 8:55 am

    JR will forever hold a special place in many hearts. A true Tar Heel. So many memories that will last forever. Until next time Junior ! We love you.

  • John Stott Posted May 9, 2024 9:06 am

    JR was a true Tar Heel. His passion and love for the baseball program was unmatched. Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family during this time.

  • Joey Lancellotti Posted May 9, 2024 9:12 am

    JR,
    Thank you for showing all of us in the Carolina Baseball program what it meant to be a true Tar Heel. I will forever cherish our memories together, late night phone calls, or dinners out with the boys! You were a special soul, who never failed to inspire every person around you. Your enthusiasm and kind-heartedness never failed to bring a smile to all our faces. We will miss you buddy! Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

  • Ashton McGee Posted May 9, 2024 9:29 am

    JR’s enthusiasm and positivity were contagious, and his presence lit up any room. I will always cherish the memories we share together in Chapel Hill and Omaha. Rest in Peace JR.

  • Trevor Kelley Posted May 9, 2024 9:32 am

    I will always remember the impact he had on our program and the love and commitment he had for UNC Baseball. Thoughts and prayers to his family.

  • Trent Thornton Posted May 9, 2024 9:43 am

    A true example of what Tar Heel pride is all about! His love and commitment he had for the UNC Baseball program will always be remembered and cherished! Rest easy JR, our thoughts and prayers are with your family!

  • Trent Thornton Posted May 9, 2024 9:46 am

    JR was the perfect example of what Tar Heel pride is all about! Your love and commitment to the UNC Baseball Program will always be remembered and cherished! Thoughts and prayers to your family!

  • Chad Flack Posted May 9, 2024 9:51 am

    We are deeply saddened by the loss of JR, a beloved member of our Tar Heel family. His passion and love for life will always be cherished by me and my teammates! Rest in peace, JR. We will miss you!!

  • Tyler Causey Posted May 9, 2024 10:05 am

    JR will always be apart of the Tar Heel family and remembered as a part of Carolina baseball. He always brought the energy to put a smile on everyone’s faces when he was in town. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Rest in peace JR.

  • Mike Morin Posted May 9, 2024 10:53 am

    JR,
    Thank you for being a light unto our entire program. Your passion motivated us to all be better. When we made it to Omaha that meant we got to see you! Thank you for showing us all what it meant to be a Tarheel. Thoughts and prayers to your family. Rest in peace!

  • Zack Gahagan Posted May 9, 2024 11:20 am

    JR’s unwavering love and support for UNC was truly remarkable. His presence was a source of joy and inspiration, and his passion for Carolina Baseball made him a true Tar Heel through and through. We will forever cherish the memories we shared with JR, Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with JR’s family. Much love Lil bro.

  • Chris Munnelly Posted May 9, 2024 11:49 am

    JR will always be a Tar Heel. He embodied the special culture you can only find in Chapel Hill. We always were excited to see his smiling face during his visits. He brought a pure joy that uplifted the team and reminded us all of our love for the game. Thank you for your commitment to UNC. God bless your family!

  • Tom Zengel Posted May 9, 2024 1:33 pm

    JR, thank you for all the joy and enthusiasm you brought to the Carolina Baseball Program. You are a Tar Heel in every way, and touched so many people. Thoughts and prayers to your family. Rest in peace.

  • Mark Fleury Posted May 9, 2024 2:46 pm

    JR – you’ll be missed in that Carolina dugout. Your love for the Tar Heels will never be forgotten. We’re thinking of you and your family.

  • Austin Love Posted May 9, 2024 3:14 pm

    JR always brought the best energy to the team on his trips to Chapel hill. I’m extremely thankful I was able to meet him and will forever be grateful for the memories he left us with. Praying for you and your family.

  • Adam Pate Posted May 9, 2024 4:11 pm

    It was an absolute honor to know JR. Some of the most memorable moments in Chapel Hill were during JR’s visits. I can say that the joy he expressed in life and especially Carolina baseball, impacted myself as well as so many of my closest friends. What a life he lived and a love he had for the Heels! Love ya JR!

  • Dylan Enwiller Posted May 9, 2024 6:39 pm

    JRs infectious energy will be missed. Thank you for bringing the positivity with you every day, Rest in peace

  • Shawn Shields Posted May 9, 2024 7:20 pm

    Robbie, Kim, Walt and the puppies, I am so happy I could be in JR’s life. I also enjoyed all our conversations, especially about the yard and flowers, North Carolina and College World Series. It will strange to come to the house not see him. I grieve with you in your loss.

  • Will Sandy Posted May 9, 2024 7:37 pm

    I will never forget those special weeks when J.R came to visit, anyone who knew him knew he brought a little magic with him to Chapel Hill. He is an incredible Tar Heel and l will never forget all the memories he helped make!

  • Benton Moss Posted May 9, 2024 8:25 pm

    JR – you will be missed my brother. You impacted more people than you can possibly imagine through your smile, your energy, your humor, and your love for the Heels. The Diamond Heels are all lucky to have known you as a friend and as family. May you rest in peace and may your family find strength in this time.

  • Benton Moss Posted May 9, 2024 8:29 pm

    JR – your light impacted more people than you can possibly know. You were not only a friend to the Diamond Heels – you were family and you will be missed my brother. May you rest in peace!

  • Joan Holt Posted May 9, 2024 8:40 pm

    Kim, Walt and Robbie,
    I am so sorry for your loss. J.R. will be greatly missed by everyone who had the privilege to know him..He was the embodiment of a true Tar Heel and loyal friend, teammate and supporter. We were blessed to know him.

  • Clemente Inclan Posted May 9, 2024 9:13 pm

    JR was a joy to be around and all of us guys were blessed to know him. I am so thankful he was a part of the Carolina baseball family. Prayers out to the Anton family.

  • Larry Gallo Jr. Posted May 10, 2024 5:02 am

    “MEMORIES ARE WHAT GIVE OUR LIVES MEANING”

    The relationship and times spent with both J.R. and his family will always be remembered as some of the best Carolina Baseball moments. I know all associated in some way with Carolina Baseball since 2006 have some great J.R. Anton memories………he was as loyal as anyone to his Carolina Baseball Family, and his personality was simply infectious. We are so thankful for where the relationship and memories of J.R. and his family all began and will certainly continue……….2006 in Omaha! God Bless J.R. and the Anton Family.

    “Pick up the phone and call someone you love every day!”

  • Jason Howell Posted May 10, 2024 9:30 am

    I am so sorry for the loss. It was an honor to be a part of the energy he brought to the Bosh every time he came into town. A true Tar Heel and part of the baseball family – Thoughts and prayers to the Anton Family.

  • Jay Cox Posted May 10, 2024 11:30 am

    J.R. will be truly missed by the Carolina baseball family! Thank you for all the support over the years!

  • Jim Collin, Posted May 10, 2024 11:41 am

    J.R. was a people person he liked everyone. He was the happiest working in the yard. I miss J.R. being a wonderful neighbor.

  • Tyler Ramirez Posted May 10, 2024 11:42 am

    I am very thankful to have been JR’s teammate and friend. I am deeply sorry for the loss, but know that JR made an impact on so many lives. I cherish the good times we had both on and off the field!

  • Mikey Madej Posted May 10, 2024 11:43 am

    JR was an incredibly joy to be around and talk too. His love for Carolina baseball was unmatched and embodied everything it means to be a Tar Heel. I’m deeply grateful I had the opportunity to meet him and be a part of his life.

  • Benji Johnson Posted May 10, 2024 11:43 am

    I am sorry to hear of the passing of JR. He was a bright light around the UNC Baseball program and a beloved presence at the College World Series. My prayers are with the Anton family.

  • Jimmy Messer Posted May 10, 2024 11:44 am

    A true Tar Heel that will be greatly missed amongst the Diamond Heels community. JR truly impacted the life of each every person that had the pleasure of meeting him. It was an absolute honor to know you and call you my friend. Thank you for being such a light of inspiration to so many. Rest in peace my friend.

  • Ben Bunting Posted May 10, 2024 11:47 am

    JR you were a true member of the UNC family and we will always be grateful for the years we were able to spend with you. Omaha was a highlight of the playing days because we knew we would get to see you and your family. Thank you for allowing us to know you and what you meant to this family .

  • Kent Emanuel Posted May 10, 2024 11:47 am

    Condolence to the Anton family. Carolina Baseball will greatly miss JR, may he rest in peace

  • Aaron Sabato Posted May 10, 2024 11:47 am

    JR was everything it meant to be a Tar Heel. When you think of Carolina baseball you think of JR. Having the honor of being one of his teammates and big brothers will be something I will cherish for the rest of my life. JR showed us what it meant to love your life to the fullest and never stop chasing your dreams. I love you JR you will forever be missed little bro until we meet again I know you are watching over all of us I love you.

  • Rodney Hutchison Jr. Posted May 10, 2024 12:01 pm

    The best week of every season was when J.R. was in town. He brought the team together on and off the field and those memories will last a lifetime. We all had that week circled on the calendar in excitement, and the goodbyes were always so difficult. J.R. is Carolina Baseball, and was a blessing to so many of us. We will miss you brother.

  • Brian Miller Posted May 10, 2024 1:10 pm

    JR was a true friend. It brings me great tears of joy to reflect back on the fun memories we shared. There was never a moment without a smile on our faces when JR stayed with us in Chapel Hill. Coming to class with us, late night food runs, playing Madden well into the night! There was nothing better than being in the batter’s box at the Bosh hearing JR scream in support of you! He will be missed dearly but I know he is with the Lord where there are no more tears, pain, or disease. We will be praying for the Anton family and are here for you all.

    “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21: 4

  • Mike Fox Posted May 10, 2024 1:20 pm

    Kim, Walt and Robbie
    We talk about the Carolina family at lot here in Chapel Hill. JR was family. For over twenty years JR has been one of us. The coaches, players and staff have been blessed beyond measure to have JR as part of our baseball program. There has been no bigger fan of Carolina baseball than JR. He will be dearly missed.
    But he will not just be missed for being a fan. He will mostly be missed for the light that shined within him. He was always smiling, always positive, always happy. He brought joy to each and every one of us. We looked forward to that in Omaha and on his many visits to campus. Our players would ask me “When is JR coming?”. They looked forward to housing him, having meals with him, bringing him to practice and yes, on occasion, taking him to class! He inspired us and infused us with love and his passion for all things Carolina. Thank you for those visits.

  • Mike Fox Posted May 10, 2024 1:21 pm

    It was not by chance JR came to Chapel Hill over twenty years ago and fell in love with the Tar Heels. It was not a coincidence. I believe it was meant to be and he was placed in all our lives for a reason. Despite what you think our program did for JR he did so much more for us. I cannot begin to put into words what it has meant to have JR as a part of Carolina baseball. He was a special person and the ultimate Tar Heel. We loved him dearly.
    As many have already stated memories and relationships are what truly fuel our lives. Thankfully we all have many fond and sweet memories of JR and I believe each and every one of our players since 2006 had a relationship with JR in some way. To many he was just one of them. Their teammate. And perhaps, outside of family, one of the strongest relationships you can have. I am happy JR could have those friendships and that feeling for all these years.

    • Caden O’Brien Posted May 10, 2024 6:29 pm

      So sorry to hear about JRs passing. He was a true joy to be around and I’m thankful for the moments I had with him! If there’s ever been someone who wears that interlocking Nc with pride, it’s been JR. I’ll never forget being in Omaha in the dugout and still hearing his chants amongst a near sold out crowd. That energy was always infectious when he came to town. JR will be missed deeply and my thoughts and prayers are with the Anton family.

  • Mike Fox Posted May 10, 2024 1:22 pm

    I know this is a very difficult time but hope you will take comfort in knowing JR impacted many a life here in Chapel Hill. And he will continue to do so.
    My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  • Levi Michael Posted May 10, 2024 2:36 pm

    I’m very sorry to hear about the loss of such a great person, friend and loyal UNC baseball fan. It’s clear that J.R. made a significant impact on all those around him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

  • Levi Michael Posted May 10, 2024 3:45 pm

    I’m very sorry to hear about the loss of such a great person, friend and loyal UNC baseball fan. It’s clear that J.R. made a significant impact on everyone around him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

  • Tommy Coyle Posted May 10, 2024 6:16 pm

    JR’s passion and joy for Carolina baseball was felt by all who had the honor of meeting him. The program will certainly miss his support and presence. Thoughts and prayers to the Anton family.

  • Mike Cavasinni Posted May 10, 2024 6:26 pm

    It was a true blessing to have a JR as a teammate and brother!. One of the greatest Tar Heels of all time. You will be forever missed and always remembered every time the Heels are in Omaha!

  • Colin Bates Posted May 10, 2024 6:33 pm

    Sending our love to the Anton family in these difficult days. The Carolina Baseball family was better for having JR as part of it. May we all channel JR’s love for Carolina Baseball in to everything we approach each day. You will be missed, but your impact will be felt forever!

  • Hansen Butler Posted May 11, 2024 4:59 am

    It was a blessing to have known JR. Having him stay with us during his annual trip to Chapel Hill was a memory I’ll cherish during my time there. His enthusiasm and love for the Tar Heels was contagious, and brought joy to so many people during his time supporting the Carolina Blue. From his chants in the dugout to his swag on the field, he was without a doubt the diamond heels biggest fan and teammate. To the Anton family, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this tough time. JR holds a special place in the hearts of all that are involved with the Carolina Baseball program.

  • Reilly hovis Posted May 11, 2024 6:18 am

    The world was a better places because of J.R. We all need to have a little more of his joy. I’m glad I knew him. Praying for your family.

  • Reilly Hovis Posted May 11, 2024 6:42 am

    The world was a better place because of J.R. Let’s all try to spread joy like he did. Prayers to your family.

  • Tommy Coyle Posted May 11, 2024 6:42 am

    JR’s passion and joy for Carolina baseball was felt by everyone who had the honor of meeting him—the program will truly miss him. Thoughts and prayers to the Anton family.

  • Jake Holtzapple Posted May 11, 2024 9:43 am

    JR brought some so much love and joy every single time he visited Chapel Hill. I don’t think there was anyone who pulled harder for the heels than he did. He had an impact on every single person he met and will always be part of the Carolina family.

  • Beth Miller Posted May 11, 2024 9:12 pm

    . I knew from the first time I met J.R. in Omaha in 2006 that he was a very special person. He loved Carolina baseball and everyone associated with the Carolina baseball team loved J.R. He always had a beaming smile and was a wonderful member of the Carolina baseball family, Rest in peace, J.R. You will be missed! Love and prayers for your family.

  • Beth Miller Posted May 11, 2024 9:19 pm

    . I knew from the first time I met J.R. in Omaha in 2006 that he was a very special person. He loved Carolina baseball and everyone associated with the Carolina baseball team loved J.R. He always had a beaming smile and was a wonderful member of the Carolina baseball family for many years. Rest in peace, J.R. You will be missed! Love and prayers for your family.

  • Evonne Williams Posted May 12, 2024 2:24 pm

    Dear Kim, Walt & Robbie,
    I am so sorry to hear of J.R.’s passing. He always had a smile and was so friendly. J.R. left such a mark in this world, especially in Omaha and the entire state of North Carolina. May God give you comfort and reminders of many wonderful memories with your dear J.R. Deepest sympathies.

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  • Angel Zarate Posted May 13, 2024 9:56 am

    JR’s energy was contagious, his visits always seemed to result in wins for UNC baseball on the field. It was such a blessing to have known JR and I know h will be greatly missed by his UNC family. Prayers for the Anton family.

  • Chaz Frank Posted May 13, 2024 7:14 pm

    JR will be forever missed by everyone he came across in this life. We were very lucky that JR chose to be a Tarheel, as his passion and loyalty to his team was unmatched. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. Much love, God Bless.

  • Seth Baldwin Posted May 14, 2024 8:23 am

    J.R. was a true Tar Heel – always showing up with a big smile, through good times and tough times. His strength and courage will forever be admired. It was amazing to have him by our side in the dugout, fighting with us!

    Love and prayers to the entire Anton family. He will be deeply missed.

  • Dave Nathan Posted May 15, 2024 11:39 am

    J.R. was a shining light who lit up Chapel Hill whenever he was in-town. I always knew it was going to be a great day when I saw him around our program. J.R. will be missed, but remembered for his impact on all of us.

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