Tony's cancer journey
Tony Houey retired at the end of 2015 after 23 years serving as Deputy Principal at Pembroke School. He was a Cancer Council ambassador for over 11 years.
He was first diagnosed on 9 January 2009 with a head and neck cancer called nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).
Tony underwent ten months of intense treatment including radiotherapy, chemotherapy and a 6 hour trans-nasal surgery through the nose to the base of his skull to remove residual growth.
Through the support of an army of medical professionals and others, Tony beat cancer and enjoyed a further 15 years of life.
Although the treatment in 2009 was successful, it left him with permanent residual effects. He had no sense of smell, crook hearing, permanent dry mouth, and severe ongoing neuropathic pain in his fingers and toes.
Earlier this year, another tumour was found in Tony's jaw. Again, with an amazing team of medical professionals, Tony faced another fight, and underwent surgery on Friday 16th May 2025.
While the operation to remove the tumour was successful, Tony suffered a stroke after the operation, and passed on Sunday 18th May 2025.
Tony is survived by his wife Jeanette, son Andrew, daughter-in-law Adele, and three grandchildren - Billy, Jack and Florence.
Tony dedicated his life to the service of others, and in lieu of flowers has requested donations to the Cancer Council SA.
Thank you to my Supporters
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Edward And Dian Naraniecki
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Kathryn Holgate
Tony was a true gentleman who dedicated his life to the service of others.
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Steve Bousfield
Rest in peace Tony. My memory will be of a great and courageous man who made an enormous contribution to education.
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Judy Harris
In memory of a highly valued colleague and mentor, and driving force behind the ANZELA (SA) Chapter. Love to Jeanette and family
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Hooi Lean Chou
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Holmes Family (1974-2016)
For your service
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Wendy Wills & Gary Bradley
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Sue & Robin Halls
Robin, Lucinda and I send our best wishes to Jeannette, Andrew and family at this sad time xxx
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Scarlet Lucero And Juliana Lanzilli
In memoriam and gratitude for Tony's enduring legacy. Tony's wit, sharp legal mind, thoughtful perspectives, insightfulness, grace and humility encapsulates his dedicated service to the educational and debating community. Our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Vale Tony.
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Ian Budenberg
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Malcolm Lamb
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Annette Annandale-james
Condolences to Jeannette and the family. I feel privileged and honoured to have met and worked alongside Tony during my time at Cancer Council SA. Such a sweet, humble gentleman. A small part of Tony's leadership, humility, grace and view on life will remain in my heart. You should be proud of the legacy that he built and leaves behind.
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Mark Staker And Giuseppe Pappalardo
Our thoughts and prayers are with Jeanette and Andrew at this sad time.
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Keefe Kwan
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The Schinckel Family
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Mal Chia
So sorry for your loss. He left his mark on the world with the lives he touched.
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Sue & David Minns
Sincere condolences to Janette and family. Tony was a highly dedicated & respected teacher and leader at Pembroke. Our family has many fond memories of Tony. We will always cherish Tony’s care and thoughtfulness in his dealings with our family over many years.
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Helena, Elton, Robin And Michelle
Our love and best wishes to Jeanette, Andrew and family. So sorry to hear of Tony's passing, a life well lived.
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Duigan Family
Well known, highly respected and lovingly remembered by us all
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Megan Wong
Very sorry to hear of the passing of Mr Houey, he was a fantastic teacher and I have fond memories of my time at Pembroke with him.
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Aldred Family
Much love to you guys
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Kasey
Have lovely memories of ‘Mr Houey’. Much love to Jeanette, Andrew and family xo
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Jon Tickle
Tony, you will be greatly missed.
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Rhi Smith
Love to you and your family Adele, Tony sounds like an amazing man.
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Thinking of you all during this sad time. Thank you Jeanette,Andrew and family for all your love and support given to Tony. Take care and look after yourselves