Philip James Brennan

Philip James Brennan, 79, of The Villages, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025.
Born in Kulpmont, Pennsylvania, Phil was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose kindness, humor, and love of life touched everyone around him.
He was a proud member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, where he faithfully attended Mass and enjoyed "Doughnuts and Coffee Sundays" with his church friends. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, where he shared countless games and camaraderie. Phil's Catholic faith was always very important to him - serving as an Altar Boy through elementary and high school, attending Catholic school, and spending one (1) year in the seminary before realizing that the priesthood was not his ultimate calling.
Phil dedicated more than 30 years of his career in loyal service to the Central Intelligence Agency, traveling to American Embassies across the globe, and retiring in 1998 with honor and distinction. His work reflected his deep sense of duty, commitment, and love for his country.
Phil was an avid sports enthusiast! Growing up he played many sports, but his first love was always basketball. Known for his shooting skills, he was a star on the Mount Carmel Catholic HS basketball team - skills he passed onto his grandsons. Most recently, you could find Phil playing pool, a hand of poker, or participating with Gio's Bocce Group where he proudly placed 2nd in the 2024 Villages Senior Games. Every Sunday for 50+ decades, Phil passionately rooted for his Washington Commanders - who will forever be known as the "Redskins" to a man not yet ready to let go of their former logo
Phil also had a lifelong love of the water. Whether enjoying the beaches of Ocean City, MD, watching sunsets over Cockrell's Creek in Reedville, VA, or soaking in the natural beauty of central Florida's
lakes, Gulf, and Atlantic coastlines, he always found peace near the water. After moving to Florida, he often said with a smile, "I'm living the dream." He cherished rides in his golf cart enthusiastically pointing out the Villages' notable landmarks to his passengers. When not on the go, Phil could be found sitting on his lanai where he'd wave to his neighbors as he listened to his Spotify playlist (50's rock and roll was always his favorite!) and worked hard to complete his daily crossword puzzles which kept his mind sharp.
Above all, Phil treasured his family. He especially loved being a grandfather and took great joy caring for his grandkids as young children and watching them grow up. Whether cheering them on at soccer, basketball, and lacrosse games, celebrating their achievements in school, or simply enjoying their company, he was immensely proud of the young adults they have become.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Alexandria Brennan, and his brother Anthony Brennan. He is survived by his former wife, Pat Kirby and their three (3) daughters, Tricia Brennan (spouse Tom Kalinowski), Tammy Dalakis, and Jennifer Brennan (spouse Jessie Brennan); his grandchildren Nicholas Kalinowski, Brennan Kalinowski, Lukas Dalakis, Miko Dalakis, Alexandra Dalakis, and Eric Ginsburg; his siblings Mary-Ellen Heitzman (Rich), Thomas Brennan (Roberta), and Andrew Brennan; twelve (12) nieces and four (4) nephews, and many beloved friends.
Phil's family will forever remember his warmth, humor, and the joy he brought into their lives. We miss him immensely, but we know that he is watching over us and continuing to serve as our guardian angel.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am, on September 19th, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church 5323 E. CR 462 Wildwood, FL 34785, with Father Gerry Cunningham officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Our Mother of Mercy Outreach Ministry 1102 N. Main Street, Wildwood, FL 34785.