Anthony Lavargna

Lavargna, Anthony A of Stoneham, MA, formally of Revere MA and Malden, MA, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, on May 10, 2026, following a brief illness. Devoted father to Leanne and her husband Alex Trauger of Reading, MA, Paul Lavargna of South Berwick, ME, and Lori and her husband Richard Murphy of Marshfield, MA. His son, Anthony Lavargna, Jr. predeceased him. Adored grandfather to 9 grandchildren - Anthony, Bianca, Nick, Bobby, Elizabeth, Max, Christian, Jake and Mackenzie, and 3 great-grandchildren - Matthew, Dominic and Bodhi. Also survived by his beloved brother, Paul Lavargna of Malden, MA.

Son of the late Alphonse and Rosalie (Malta) Lavargna, Anthony was born and raised on Reservoir Ave in Revere. “Buffy” as he was best known by all who loved him, was a 1958 graduate of Revere High School where he was a star football player and lover of all other sports. Upon finishing high school, Anthony briefly attended college in Oklahoma where he continued to play football. Deciding that college-life was not for him, he returned home and enlisted in the Army where he served for 3 years. He married and chose to stay in Revere to raise his family.

Early on, Anthony was a hard-working, talented floor and carpet layer and owner of Super Floors. He left this line of work when the opportunity arose to purchase the Linden Dairy Bar, later known as The Linden Diner in Malden, MA, which he owned and operated for 30+ years. Knowing nothing about running a restaurant at the time, he quickly became a self-taught cook who created a true family-run landmark, welcoming generations of loyal customers over the years. Working side by side with his son, Anthony Jr., with his daughters, their cousins and their friends waitressing, the diner was a true family affair. He created a gathering place for friends and family alike, with loud conversations, friendly debates and a lot of laughter.

Decorated with poster-sized photographs of his grandchildren and menu-items named for each one of them (such as “Benedict Bob”, “Queen Elizabeth" and “Mad Max”), it felt like home to both employees and its the many regular customers. Upon selling the business and entering semi-retirement, Anthony he was not ready to give up working altogether. He found enjoyment in his part time work as a delivery driver for RG Labs in Revere, working right up until his early 80s.

Anthony was first and foremost a family man. He was intensely loyal to his family and they knew that, no matter what, they could always count on him. His devotion and support never wavered. He consistently showed them that true respect is earned through character and resilience and that actions speak louder than words. Among the many invaluable lessons he taught were never to quit, always to protect and care for family, and how to face any situation with strength and humility.

Whether he was cheering on his children, and then grandchildren, at various rinks and fields, spending Sundays watching The Patriots play, or taking his grandchildren to the Foxboro pre-season training sessions, his love of sports was life-long. He also looked forward to annual visits to Marshfield Fair where “Papa” loved handing out unlimited ride tickets and saying yes to every game, snack and souvenir. His home-made crust instructions, while leading the annual family pre-Thanksgiving Day pie making event, made both big messes and lasting memories.

Anthony “Buffy” Lavargna touched many lives with his wisdom, generosity and loyalty. Though he was as tough as they come, he lived with a gentle heart. His strength never came at the expense of kindness, and he will live in the hearts of many forever. Friends and family are invited to honor Anthony’s memory.

A memorial Service will be held for Anthony on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 4:00PM- 7:00PM. 

Please join us in celebrating Anthony's life and legacy by sharing your memories and photos on his memorial page at www.buonfiglio.com.