MADISON - Phillip A. Levy, 78, of Maple Bluff, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021, after a difficult struggle with metastatic cancer. He was the first son born to Irving and Dorothy Levy (Barvin) on April 16, 1942, in La Crosse, Wis. Phillip graduated from La Crosse Central High School in 1960 and the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1964. He is survived by his brothers, Marvin and Jeffrey. He was predeceased by both of his parents; and a brother, Marc.

Phillip was President of the Phillips Home Specialty Stores located in Madison from 1965 to 1985. He spent 35 years leading the professional design team associated with the Phillip A. Levy Interior Design studio and furniture showroom. In addition to his design studies at the UW-Madison, he continued his education at the famous Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles. He was a professional member of the International Interior Design Association and served as the Wisconsin Chapter President for three years. Phillip received many honors and awards, as well as being featured in numerous local and some national magazines and newspapers. His projects in Madison included country clubs and University projects. He and his team finished the interior of Olin House (Chancellor's residence) in the Fall of 2008. His many residential projects ranged in location from Madison to other parts of Wisconsin along with California, Florida and Arizona.

Phillip Levy's community involvement included serving on the boards of the Madison Rotary, United Way, Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, Madison Opera, Madison Youth Symphony, Civic Center Endowment, the Madison Chamber Orchestra and the Madison Jewish Federation. He was also on the Board of Visitors of the UW School of Human Ecology. He was a dog lover and a director of the Dane County Humane Society. Phillip was a benefactor of the Mayo Clinic and a member of the Bascom Hill Society, Madison Club, Maple Bluff Country Club and Temple Beth El. Suggested memorials can be sent to Campaign for a New Wisconsin History Museum - 816 State St., Madison, WI 53706; Jewish Social Services of Madison - 6434 Enterprise Lane, Madison, WI 53719; and Olbrich Botanical Gardens - 3330 Atwood Ave., Madison, WI 53704. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com.

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Published by Madison.com on Feb. 14, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Phillip Levy

Sponsored by Cress Funeral & Cremation Service - Madison West.

8 Entries

Dana and David Fields

February 19, 2021

Phillip was our Madison ambassador. We ambled into Phillip Levy Fine Furniture for design help. We had no idea we would meet such a warm, welcoming man with impeccable taste and a desire to have our home fit our personality. I believe Phillip was psychologist, interior designer and most importantly a friend.

Phillip´s knowledge of Madison was immensly helpful in making connections with private clubs and philanthropic opportunities. His dining recommendations were always reliable.

Phillips love for his dog, Alfie, was unmistakeable. We always enjoyed seeing them on their walks through the neighborhood. They both had a friendly greeting for everyone they encountered.

Phillip was a first class gentleman and a true renaissance man. Most importantly, he was a loyal friend.

Amy Gilman

February 19, 2021

I had lunch with Phil in October 2019 at Maple Bluff, and what was supposed to be a short introductory luncheon soon became and extended and wonderful afternoon talking about family and art. He will be missed.

James and Mary Yeager

February 16, 2021

We are very saddened by Phil’s passing. He was our immediate next door neighbor for 12 years on Coleman Road. When we moved next door to him in 2005, he welcomed us and pulled us aside to say, “ You know you’ve moved to a special place, right? “ When we said we hoped so, he went on to explain that we were now living in “the Beverly Hills of Maple Bluff” !! He explained why and he was right! We enjoyed many good years with him as a neighbor and friend to our family. He was also a very talented design professional and helped point us in the right direction on many projects. We will miss Phil and his sweet dog, Alfie. Rest In Peace, Phil, and may the Lord watch over you and keep you. Sincere and heartfelt sympathy to Marv and Jeff. Mary and Jim Yeager and family

Heartfelt Condolences Arrangement- BASKET INCLUDED

Mike and Sheri Lawson

Sent Flowers

First Tee - South Central Wisconsin

February 15, 2021

So sorry to hear of the Levy family's loss. He will be deeply missed for so many reasons but his legacy will live on. Our prayers are with you, Jeff and Marv!

Ann Cardinale

February 14, 2021

Phil was a very special person, very dignified, and a true gentleman, he always reminded me of an era we are sadly losing. He will truly be missed by many.

Kristi Shepard

February 14, 2021

My deepest sympathy to Jeff and Marv. Phil was a special combination of grace, strength and humor. He made every interaction memorable, and I cherish my purchases from his showroom. Phil always seemed as delighted with my discoveries at his store as I was. Take care, and know that so many fondly remember your brother, Phil.

The Staff of Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

February 14, 2021

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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