Phil Arthur

Miles Philip Arthur, of Orlando, FL passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025, at the age of 93. He was born on November 12, 1931, to Harold and Agnes Arthur in Quincy, Ohio. “Phil” being the oldest child, had two siblings: a sister, Elaine and a brother, Paul. He moved to Florida with his family in 1935 where they eventually settled in Gainesville. Phil spent much of his youth there and obtained his High School diploma from Gainesville High in 1948.

After High School, Phil joined the Air Force and did a couple of tours in Iceland setting up radar stations for Strategic Air Command. After his military career and through the G.I. bill, he attended the University of Florida. Being musically talented, he played trombone with the Florida Gators Marching Band. Phil loved to recount his adventures with the band to anyone who would listen. He graduated from the University of Florida with an Engineering Bachelor’s degree in 1956.

In 1957, Phil married Roberta Blaine and was hired on with The Glenn L. Martin Company that eventually became Lockheed-Martin in 1995. Phil was with the same company for over 44 years and worked on and oversaw several important military defense systems we see today.

Phil was preceded in death by Roberta, his beloved wife of 54 years. He was devoted to her, and their long marriage was a testimony of love and commitment. Phil was a loving father to his four children and their spouses: son David Arthur and his wife Mary Beth; daughter, Pamela Everson and her husband, David; daughter, Linda Copenhaver and her husband, Dave; son, Don Arthur and his wife, Lisa. He was proud of and lovingly cherished his eleven grandchildren, Anthony, Andrew, Debbie, Brian, Amy, Jennifer, Katelyn, Megan, Jessica, Rachel, and Mitchell. Phil was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren, Subria, Jasmine, Sean, Aziel, Owen, David, Gabriel, Avery, and Charity.

Phil loved his family, trusting them to God, always wanting the best for those around him. He was smart, wise, talented, hardworking, patriotic, a die-hard gator alum and a true gentleman.

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