Philip William James' Obituary
On Thursday, February 6, 2025, Phil passed away having faced Parkinson’s Disease and the aftereffects of a stroke suffered in 2018. He leaves his wife of 64 years, Judy, and sons Ken and Tim (Michele) as well as two grandsons plus several nieces and nephews. He also leaves a brother Mike (Martha). Phil was predeceased by his parents (Stanley and Margaret), his brother Bill and infant sister Priscilla.
Phil joined the United States Air Force in 1957 shortly after graduating from high school in his beloved hometown of Lyons Falls, New York. During his 20 years of service, he was stationed in Massachusetts (there he met Judy), California, Japan and Washington, D.C. where he worked in the new fields of satellite communications and computers. He retired with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant while also earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland. Then he moved to Massachusetts and Puerto Rico with his family where he continued to work in the computer field, retiring a second time from Digital Equipment Corporation.
In 2003 Phil and Judy moved to Florida where he used his computer skills to help his neighbors in the over-55 community where they lived.
On a recent call with his wife and sons, Ken asked, “What run can I ski for you? A groomed trail? moguls? through the trees?” Phil replied, “All of the above!” He loved to ski. He also enjoyed SCUBA diving, gardening, traveling, investing and following New England sports teams.
Phil’s life will be celebrated at a funeral mass which will take place at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Mount Dora, Florida, on Tuesday, March 4, at 9:00 AM. The church is located near NeuLife Rehabilitation of Florida in Mount Dora where he received excellent care from the devoted staff for over five years. The family is also grateful for the support provided by Cornerstone Hospice, Tavares, Florida.
Instead of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.
Phil’s family and friends will miss him greatly.
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