Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger | Diocese of Tucson website

Every fall, the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Tucson recognizes a member of the Catholic community who excels in serving the religious, charitable, or educational needs across Southern Arizona. The Cornerstone Award is the highest recognition bestowed by the Diocese of Tucson and the Catholic Foundation. This year’s recipient is Deacon Tony Underwood, pastoral administrator at Saint Patrick Catholic Church in Bisbee, Arizona.

Deacon Tony Underwood was born in a small Indiana town where he received his first two sacraments. He recalls “plenty of small pond fishing, picnics, camping, and various family events including many visits with my grandparents.” His family later moved to Texas and then to Douglas, Arizona.

In Douglas, Tony met Jackie Howard at age 15. They married six years later at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Douglas and recently celebrated their 45th anniversary. “Marrying Jackie is one of the smartest decisions I have made in life,” said Tony. “She keeps my feet grounded and heart open.”

The couple has three daughters: Amanda, Tiffany, and Ramona. Their children attended Immaculate Heart Academy in Tucson where Jackie worked as an administrative assistant for over 20 years. Tony was an active father and served as president of the parents’ association.

Tony joined St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church (SEAS) where he became a Fourth Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus. In 1991, his council was recognized as Arizona’s Council of the Year while he was Grand Knight.

In 2000, Tony moved to Bisbee to help manage Jackie’s parents’ travel business during their medical treatment. Three years later, he was ordained a deacon by Bishop Gerald Kicanas. “My work in ministry at SEAS placed me into the company of wonderful committed deacons causing me to sharpen my discernment,” said Tony.

Deacon Tony became pastoral administrator at St. Patrick Catholic Church and St. Michael Mission in 2006. He oversaw significant restoration projects including $180,000+ for Saint Michael Mission and $500,000+ for Saint Patrick Parish’s stained-glass windows.

Bishop Edward Weisenburger congratulated Deacon Tony: “I have observed Deacon Tony as his Bishop and seen him do wonderful generous loving work for the Church.” When informed about receiving the Cornerstone Award, Deacon Tony expressed feeling undeserving: “I prefer the attention goes to our parishioners.”

Bishop Kicanas added: “Tony is so deserving of this recognition on behalf of the Catholic Foundation and the Diocese of Tucson.”

The award will be presented at its 42nd annual Cornerstone Gala on Friday, September 27, 2024.

For more information visit www.cathfnd.org/cornerstone-gala/.