We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of board member Tony Iriti on May 6, 2026. For the past six years, Mr. Iriti has served southern Illinois in multiple roles—as Executive Director of the Jefferson County Development Corporation (JCDC) in Mt. Vernon, Illinois; as Government and Economic Development representative for the Southern Illinois Workforce Development Board (SIWDB; a member of the Board of Directors at Champion Community Investments; and as a Board of Trustees member of SI NOW.
Tony’s career path included serving both private and public sectors. Tony began his career working for county government in Ohio as a data center manager / systems analyst for the Hewlett Packard Corporation and RCA before returning to county government as an elected official.
For 16 years in government, Tony Iriti worked as the Chief Assessing Officer / Chief Fiscal Officer for Hancock County Ohio. In addition, he served as Mayor of Findlay, Ohio, for four years before returning to the private sector (privately funded) as Economic Development Director.
Tony Iriti spent the next 11 years as Economic Development Director for three different organizations in three different states Ohio, Kentucky, and most recently Illinois as Executive Director for JCDC. As economic development director, Tony was focused on industrial development including retention and expansion of existing industry, attraction of new companies, workforce development and entrepreneurship.
“Tony was an incredible advocate for Man-Tra-Con and the Southern Illinois Workforce Development Board. He was a true champion for economic and workforce development across southern Illinois, especially in Jefferson County. His passion for creating opportunities, building partnerships, and moving communities forward was evident in everything he did. Tony was a strong supporter of workforce initiatives and believed deeply in collaboration and regional growth,” Man-Tra-Con CEO Stephanie Robinson says.
“He will be greatly missed. Please keep his family, friends, and colleagues at JCDC in your thoughts during this difficult time,” Stephanie adds.
From the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Jefferson County Development Corporation Executive Director, Tony Iriti.”
“Tony was more than a leader in our community — he was a friend, a coworker, a mentor, and someone who genuinely cared about the people and future of Jefferson County. His passion for economic development and his dedication to helping our communities grow left a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come.”
“Tony had a way of bringing people together, encouraging collaboration, and making everyone feel valued. He believed deeply in the potential of Jefferson County and worked tirelessly to make it a better place for businesses, families, and future generations.”
“We are incredibly grateful for the partnership, friendship, and leadership Tony shared with the Chamber and our community. His absence will be deeply felt by so many.”
“Please keep Tony’s family, friends, coworkers, and all who knew and loved him in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
