Philip J. Cahill

Philip J. Cahill of Montague, passed away on August 25, 2025, at Bon Secours Community Hospital. He was 82 years old. Born on December 8, 1942, in Staten Island, NY, he was the son of the late Ruth D. and John J. Cahill. Philip lived a life defined by intellectual curiosity, service to others, and unwavering faith.
A dedicated public servant, Philip served as a Narcotics Correction Officer for the New York State Department of Corrections in Otisville, NY, until his retirement. His commitment to rehabilitation and education led him to a second career with the New Jersey State Department of Corrections, where he taught incarcerated individuals, helping them earn their GEDs and offering them a path to a brighter future.
Philip was a lifelong learner, earning a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and a Master's degree. His passion for languages was extraordinary; self-taught, he spoke Greek, Spanish, German, and Mandarin with such fluency that native speakers marveled at his skill. At the time of his passing, he was eager to master Hebrew, a testament to his relentless pursuit of knowledge and deep faith.
A devout Roman Catholic, Philip was a longtime parishioner of St. Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church in Sandyston, where his faith guided his life. His wisdom and generosity touched lives, leaving a legacy of kindness and intellectual rigor.
He leaves behind devoted friends Scott Nicolai with his wife Shannon, Jeff Nicolai and Scott's children Kylee, Kameron, Kaiden, Kooper and Kiera.
A funeral procession will form 1:15PM on Wednesday September 3rd at the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home 154 East Main Street, Port Jervis, NY 12771. A graveside service will commence at 1:30PM at St. Mary's RC Cemetery, Port Jervis.
A Memorial Mass will take place 4:30PM on Saturday September 20th at St. Thomas the Apostle RC Church 210 US 206 Sandyston NJ 07826.