Anthony Rene “Tony” Ault, a humble, hardworking, and dedicated journalist, editor, photographer, proud U.S. Army veteran, and educator, passed away on June 5, 2025, at the age of 83.
Tony served as a reporter, editor, and photographer for Valley News for nearly 25 years, where his search for truth, compassionate storytelling, and deep commitment to the communities of Southwest Riverside County earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues, readers, and public officials alike. His stories will remain a legacy—offering an even-handed history of the region.
Tony lived most of his life in Southern California with his beloved wife, Merilyn, and together they raised their son, Michael, of whom they were very proud, along with their grandson, Gavin. He deeply cherished his family and friends, sharing good food and stories during visits. He was also deeply loved by his niece Alisha and nephew Aaron, and his only brother, Steven, and sister-in-law Marian, of Virginia.
His brother Steven shared:
“Family will remember Tony as an optimist and a gentleman who always had a good thing to say about others, always put his family first, and as a guy who always enjoyed bluegrass music. He was an avid outdoorsman and forest conservationist. Tony volunteered with the U.S. Forest Service and served on the council of a local nature reserve, all while writing and editing for his local newspapers. He followed local and national events with focus and a critical eye. He will be sorely missed by his surviving family and always remembered for his gentle laugh, honesty, loving nature, and kind ways. May Tony rest ever peacefully in the hands of God.”
Tony’s wife, Merilyn, preceded him in death on June 12, 2020, after 49 years of marriage. They met in Salt Lake City, Utah, where they married before moving to California, ultimately settling in the Hemet area for more than 25 years. Together, they co-owned a shopping newspaper for several years, with Merilyn always a steadfast supporter of Tony’s journalism and teaching career.
Tony was born in 1941 and raised with strong values of service, integrity, empathy, and curiosity—traits that guided him throughout his life. He proudly served in the United States Army, where he developed a deep sense of discipline, patriotism, and resilience that stayed with him long after his military service ended.
When others were considering retirement, Tony joined Valley News, where he would serve for more than two decades. He covered a wide range of stories—from city council meetings and school board decisions to community celebrations and local tragedies. He believed in the power of local journalism to hold leaders accountable, inform the public, uplift, and connect people. Known for his unassuming and warm demeanor, Tony could often be found at local events, notebook and camera in hand, capturing the spirit of the community he so deeply loved.
Tony is survived by his son, Michael Ault (Sarah), and grandson Gavin of Aurora, Colorado; his brother Steven Ault (Marian), niece Alisha and nephew Aaron of Virginia; Merilyn’s sister, Julieann Richardson, and nephews Ryan and Andy, also of Virginia.
His son, Mike, shared this tribute:
“My dad loved me unconditionally. He told me that no matter what I did, he would always support me and love me. I’ve tried to do the same with my own child, but I can never be as selfless as this wonderful human being. That’s my father. He was always there for anyone who needed him. My dad always chased the truth and gave fair and valuable opinions while keeping an open mind, never wavering from the truth. I will miss him every day, but I will think of him and his memories will live with me forever. Thank you, Dad, for everything you’ve done for me. I love you. I will miss you. And most of all, thank you.”
A close family friend, Shirley Molina, added:
“He was the best man on earth. There are no words to describe how wonderful he and his wife were—the most wonderful people you could meet. You felt at home with him. You just never know what you have until it’s lost.”
In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Tony’s memory to donate to the Santa Rosa Plateau Nature Education Foundation, a place where he found peace and meaning. Donate at https://santarosaplateaunatureeducationfoundation.wildapricot.org/Donate.
A memorial service to celebrate Tony’s life will be announced in the coming weeks.
