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4 Entries
Linda Thomas
August 8, 2009
My son, Josh and I knew Phil many years ago while living in Maryland and sadly enough never reunited. Phil was a kind and loving man with a wonderful heart. My son, also bonded his dog, 'Trudy' during that period in time, and we shared some special moments together. I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing recently from Anne. I know there's an empty place left for his family and friends. Know that he touched many lives and will always be a part of us.
Dan Voss
June 10, 2009
I met Phil when we were both working at Lockheed Martin (then Martin Marietta) in Orlando, FL, during the 1980's, and we became close friends.
Our relationship continued when Phil moved to our facility in Oak Ridge, TN, and later on to Raytheon in Garland, TX.
As tough as this loss is for me, to find the strength to deal with it I have only to look at Phil's life, which was a tribute to integrity, professionalism, courage, humanity, love, and the sheer joy of living. In death, as in life, his friendship sustains me.
Phil battled a terrible disease with great dignity and courage. He maintained his trademark sense of humor even under his affliction. Through it all, as ever, his first concern was for his two sons. His love for them is boundless and timeless. Alex and Andy, please know that your dad will be with you always.
Linda
June 8, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
Anne Leightner Kienlen
June 7, 2009
I was blessed to have Phil as my husband, and felt fortunate to spend ten years with him. He was a good man who loved his two sons deeply; cared for his friends; and enriched each community he lived in by giving generously of his time to coach youth sports. He is terribly missed by those of us who knew him. I hope he is at peace now, and my love for him continues.
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