Phil A. Joseph

Philip Azar Joseph, 77, passed away on January 26, 2025 at Altercare of Bucyrus. 

He was born on May 20th,1947 in Zanesville, Ohio to Rosalie and Philip N. Joseph. He grew up alongside his younger siblings, Mike and MaryAnn, above The East End Cafe, a Zanesville landmark owned by his parents. He was a cherished part of a loving, Lebanese family with 30 first cousins who were like brothers and sisters. The countless good times and bond they shared growing up helped shape Phil into the one-of-a-kind man who was loved by all who knew him. 

Phil was passionate about basketball and spent countless hours playing on the outdoor court next to the East End Cafe with family and friends. This early love of the game laid the foundation for his athletic success as he became a standout player at Bishop Rosecrans High School and later played at The University of Rio Grande where he earned his degree in Education in 1969. He went on to earn his master’s degree from Union College in Kentucky in 1972. 

After his playing days, Phil transitioned into coaching where his deep understanding of the game and commitment to young athletes made a lasting impact. As a coach, he mentored generations of players, emphasizing not just the fundamentals of basketball, but also life lessons in teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. His first year at Maysville High School was followed by two years at Galion High School. He then led the program at Utica High School for two seasons as head coach. In 1974, Coach Joseph landed the head coaching position at Newark Catholic High School where he coached for 6 years. Under his leadership, The Green Wave won 6 league titles and Coach Joseph was named Licking County Coach of the Year in 1978. His 1976 team made it to the Sweet 16 Regional Basketball Tournament. In 1980, Coach Joseph accepted the head coaching position at Bucyrus High School where he stayed at the helm until 1986. During his 42-year tenure he remained part of the program, proudly coaching the Redmen in various capacities. Phil had the pleasure of working with many coaches during this time. They became part of a brotherhood, sharing a bond of camaraderie that grew beyond the court and became the heart of his coaching journey. His many years of dedication earned him The Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame Award, The Respect the Game Award, The Bob Arzen Award, The Mac Morrison Award for Lifetime Service and he was inducted into the Bucyrus City Schools Hall of Fame in 2019. The legacy of Phil A. Joseph was cemented on January 20, 2024 when the basketball court at Bucyrus High School was named in his honor, signifying that his influence on the Bucyrus school community will never be forgotten. A day prior to his passing, Coach J. was awarded membership into the 2025 Class of the Crawford County Sports Hall of Fame. The ceremony will be held this coming April and Phil was most humbled by this gesture.

In addition to coaching, Phil dedicated 31 years teaching at Bucyrus High School. He made lasting friendships with colleagues throughout his career. He was known for his sense of humor and ability to connect with others. Phil considered Bucyrus High School his home.

While Phil was coaching at Galion High School, he would often reserve the gymnasium at the local YMCA for basketball practice. It was his luck and good fortune that he met his Forever MVP, Patricia Murphy, who worked at the front desk. The couple married in 1973 and enjoyed 51 years of marriage. Phil was a devoted husband and loving father to his children, Phil Jr. and Melissa, putting family above all else. He was also a long-time member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, The Knights of Columbus, The Elks, and Moose Lodge.

Phil will be missed by all who knew him, especially his family. He is survived by his wife Pat; children Phil (Kerri) Joseph, Melissa (Daren) Reichenbach; his grandchildren Jay, Blake, Sophia and Kendall; his brother Mike (Debbie) Joseph; his sister MaryAnn Joseph; his nephew Brook (Christa) Scardina and his niece Brandy (Ryan) Akers as well as many other family members.

His death was preceded by his parents, Philip and Rosalie Joseph.

Visitation will be held from 2-5 pm Sunday, February 2 at Wise Funeral Service, 129 W. Warren St., Bucyrus, Ohio. Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am Monday at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 135 N. Liberty St., Galion, with Fr. Paul Fahrbach officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery in Bucyrus.

The family requests those attending the visitation feel free to wear their favorite sports attire.

Donations in his memory can be given to Bucyrus High School Athletic Boosters or a charity of your choice. These gifts will be accepted through the funeral home or at church on the morning of his funeral mass. Memories and photos are encouraged to be shared on his guestbook page at www.wisefuneral.com.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the support and care provided by Altercare of Bucyrus and Bucyrus Hospital.