Philip Dexter Emery

Philip Dexter Emery

October 6, 1941 - May 27, 2025

With deep love and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Philip Dexter Emery, who departed this life on May 27, 2025, at the age of 83.

Born on October 6, 1941, Philip's life was marked by adventure, intellect and his incredible sense of humor. When he was just five years old, his family moved to India, where he attended the Kodaikanal International School. It was there that he developed into an accomplished young student and athlete - boxing, football, running track, and swimming with enthusiasm and discipline. He had some interesting pets as a child that included a hyena named Bosco and a monkey. At sixteen, he returned to the United States and later graduated from Atlantic City High School in 1960.

Soon after graduation, Philip proudly served his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. Following his military service, he worked various jobs, including summers as an Atlantic City lifeguard before beginning a long and successful career as an ironworker. He spent over 25 years with Ironworkers Local 401 in Philadelphia, where he was fearless and known for his skill, reliability and knowledge.

Beyond his professional life, Phil was a man of many passions. He was a lifelong lover of sports, especially boxing and the Philadelphia Eagles. He enjoyed classical music and the arts. He and his partner Constance would frequently attend art shows and concerts. He loved to play chess, always ready to challenge one of his children to a competitive match after dinner. He was incredibly well read and he devoured military history books and autobiographies, often reading three books a week into his eighties. His mind was sharp, curious, and always seeking to learn more.

Phil was a long-time member of Alcoholics Anonymous and recently celebrated his 50th Anniversary of sobriety. Over the past few weeks, we have heard numerous stories about how Phil helped countless people with their own sobriety journeys and this is by far, what we consider to be his greatest accomplishment.

He is survived by his Partner, Constance Brown who was by his side every day for the last three months; his children, Glenn Emery (Amy), Cyndie Emery and Jill Quinn (Jonathan) and their mother Eleanor. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Katie, Christian, Weston and Holden as well as his Great Granddaughter, Winnie.

A private celebration of his life is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Livengrin Recovery Center - 4833 Hulmeville Rd. Bensalem, PA 19020