George Alvin Phillips

George Alvin Phillips, a devoted husband, father, "Pop", and friend, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026 at the age of 93. George was known for his quick-wit, his warm heart, and his ability to kid just about anyone he met. If you spent more than five minutes with him, chances are he made you laugh.

Born February 28, 1932 in Philadelphia, he was the youngest of the two sons of the late Abia S. and Gertrude R. (nee Bradley) Phillips. George grew up on Reinhard Street in Southwest Philadelphia and attended John Bartram High School, or "Saint John Bartram", as he would jokingly call it. He and his family lived in Folcroft, PA for over 60 years where he was an active member of St. George's Parish. He most recently resided in Media, PA.

He is survived by his wife of more than 70 years, Jean Phillips (nee Lawless), whom he lovingly called "The Bride", a reflection of the joy and devotion that never faded between them. Jean was the love of his life. He would often tell her and others that she was the best thing that ever happened to him. George was the loving father of Jeanne Nolan (Michael), Patricia Colgan (Michael), and George Phillips (Tina). To his grandchildren and many of their friends, he was simply known as "Pop". He was the proud "Pop" to his seven grandchildren: Jack (Jen), Kelly (Brad), Anthony, Michael (Nikki), George, Michael, and Nicholas) and six Great-Grandchildren: Jordan, Jamie, Cooper, Ryan, Parker, and Emma. George was also beloved by his brothers- and sisters-in-law, as well as his many nieces and nephews.

George worked for nearly 40 years at Bell Telephone. After retirement, he continued to work on telephone lines on a part time basis at Taylor Hospital, Delaware County Memorial Hospital, and Crozer Hospital until he was 83, a testament to his hard work and need to stay busy. George was incredibly handy. He loved doing DIY projects around the house and would often lend a helping hand to family and friends with their projects.

George carried with him a lifelong love of community, loyalty, and service. He was an incredibly proud American and proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy where he was stationed at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He was awarded the National Defense Services Medal for his service during the Korean War. He was a very active member of the St. George's Parish community, Glenolden Youth Club, The Knights of Columbus, and Society of the Holy Name.

George loved sports. He was a fan of the Eagles, Phillies, Penn State, and the Boston Red Sox, whom he fell in love with as a kid when he saw Ted Williams play. Sports weren't just something he watched. George lived an active life. Playing sports most of his life. Even playing softball into his 60s. George was an avid golfer. He loved playing every Thursday with the guys from the Knights of Columbus. He was also a highly respected youth Coach, Referee, and Umpire. To this day, anyone that knows him from growing up in Folcroft and Glenolden still affectionately call him "Coach".

He found joy in so many things in life. He loved Country music, especially Willie Nelson. George loved the beach, spending his summers in Sea Isle City. Often waking his entire family in the very early morning as he got ready to cook everyone breakfast. He loved spending time with friends and family and would often entertain guests while he enjoyed an ice cold Busch Light. He and Jean enjoyed traveling and socializing with their numerous life-long friends. They got a chance to travel all around the country with the "Rowdies", their great group of friends from St. George's.

While he is no longer with us, George's humor, generosity, and steady presence will live on in the countless lives he touched. His legacy is found not only in his family, but in every player he coached, every friend he helped, and every laugh he shared. He was deeply loved, and he will be deeply missed.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Tuesday, February 3, 2026, 6:00 - 8:00 PM, at Cavanagh Family Funeral Home, 301 Chester Pike, Norwood, PA and Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 9:15 – 10:15 AM at St. George Church, 22 E Cooke Ave, Glenolden, PA. Funeral Mass to follow at 10:30 AM.

Interment SS Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the student-run Chester Community Clinic at Widener University. Gifts may be made online at: https://giving.widener.edu/chesterclinic. (See the link below)

Or, donations may be mailed by sending a check made payable to Widener University, with "Chester Community Clinic" noted in the memo line, to:

Widener University

Attn: Dr. Jill Black

One University Place

Chester, PA 19013