Tony W. Denning, 53, of Blythewood, passed away Friday, February 28, 2014 following a brief illness. Born November 16, 1960 in Raleigh, NC, he was a son of Jim Denning and the late Marie Goodwin Denning. Mr. Denning served as an engineer with the City of Columbia Fire Department until his retirement, and he greatly enjoyed working in nature, gardening, and tending his koi pond. A man with a great love for life, he will be greatly missed by the family and friends he leaves behind.

Tony is survived by his wife, Kathy Jane Denning; daughter, Shelly Smith (Randy); step-son, Russell Carter (Janet); brother, Gino Denning; father, Jim Denning; numerous grandchildren, and many other family and friends.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, March 4 at 6:30 o'clock at Shives Funeral Home, Colonial Chapel, 5202 Colonial Drive, Columbia. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 5 o'clock at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Bear Creek Station #25 in care of the City of Columbia Fire Department, 1910 Harden Street, Columbia, SC, 29201.