Gary M Phillips

Gary Michael Phillips, age 51, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 29, 2024. Beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, Gary of Venetia (formerly of Scottdale) was the son of Thomas Phillips Jr. and the late Lucille (Rizza) Phillips. In addition to his father, Thomas, Gary is also survived by his daughter, Luciana Marie Phillips; four siblings, Barbara Benzio and husband, Edward of Palm City, FL, Kathleen Hollinger and late husband, Scott of Monroeville, Stephen and wife, Nora of Delmont, Leslie LeSuer and husband, Elmer IV, of Kingston, NY; and nieces and nephews, Brooke Benzio, Lindsay (Hollinger) Litterini and husband, Christopher, Brian Benzio and wife, Amanda, Nicole (Hollinger) Omecene and husband, Ryan, Brett Benzio, Brittney Benzio, Andrew Baldi, Cooper Phillips, Evan LeSuer and Easton Phillips. Gary is also survived by four great-nieces, two great-nephews and many cousins. Gary graduated from Southmoreland High School in 1990 and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in English/writing and Spanish from Slippery Rock University of PA in 1995. He later earned a master's degree in communications and information systems from Robert Morris University in 2002. While serving as a Public Affairs Specialist in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1995-1997, Gary also earned a certificate in basic journalism from the Defense Information School in 1996. Gary had a love for music, cherished time spent with family and friends, enjoyed golfing (and supported numerous charitable outings), and had a passion for Pittsburgh sports (primarily the Steelers, attending many games both home and away with close friends). Gary's career as a marketing and business development professional in the fields of engineering, energy, and oil and gas spanned more than two decades. Throughout his career, Gary was actively involved in the non-profit professional organization Appalachian Basin GPA Midstream Association, where he served in various volunteer roles. Gary will be remembered best for his kindness, how easily he connected with people, and his ability to enjoy and celebrate every occasion, big or small. Personalized arrangements are under the professional supervision of the ROBERT B. FERGUSON FUNERAL HOME, 105 Spring St., Scottdale (www.fergusonfunerals.com). A memorial service will be held in the near future. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that those who are able to instead make a donation to the Down Syndrome Association of Pittsburgh (DSAP). Gary was passionately involved in advocacy and raising awareness of issues affecting individuals with Down Syndrome, while also fundraising in honor of his daughter, Luciana Marie. Donate to DSAP in Memory of Gary Michael Phillips: (https://downsyndromeassociationofpittsburgh-bloom.kindful.com/).