Philip "Paps" Efthimion

"If you think I look good today, you should see me tomorrow"
It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our father and grandfather, Philip 'Paps' Efthimion of Ossining, NY. Phil was born in Hempstead, N.Y. on March 23, 1935, to Charles and Sylvia Efthimion of New Hampshire and Mytilene, Greece. Phil was a big brother to Evelyn 'Evie' and Peter 'Pete'. Phil was a gentle, greek giant and one of the kindest, most generous, and compassionate people that you will ever have the pleasure of knowing. I never heard Phil raise his voice in anger, and no matter the circumstance, Phil was always willing to lend a helping hand. We can all take a page from his book.
Phil met his wife 59 years ago at Teachers College, Columbia University and built a beautiful life together in Ossining, N.Y. Phil and Mary were blessed with two daughters Anastasia 'Stacey' Migliozzi and Christine 'Chrissie' Melendez, and two beautiful grandchildren George Philip Melendez and Zoe Grace Migliozzi. Phil also enjoyed the company of his son-in-laws, George Melendez, and Steve Roche.
An educator, accomplished musician and lifelong member of the American Federation of Musicians, Phil had an affinity and love for music. Phil played several instruments including the clarinet, flute, and saxophone. Phil shared his love of music by teaching and directing the band at the Lakeland/Shrub Oak School districts for over 30 years. Over the years, Phil also conducted several summer concerts in the park, administered the music camp at Muscoot Farm in Somers, N.Y. and played many gigs and shows in the Westchester County area.
Besides being a musician and educator, Phil was an excellent cook. We believe that it was hard wired into his Greek genetics. During our first year of marriage, Phil cooked dinner for Chrissie and I every Wednesday evening PS I gained 30lbs in our first year of marriage! Phil was also a tinkerer not only doing his own auto repairs (did we mention that he loved cars!), but he also loved to repair all types and of musical instruments. Phil did not like to throw anything away and had quite a collection of tools, glues, and instruments in various states of repair. Post retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his friends and repairing musical instruments at Radovich and Dean Music in Carmel, N.Y. Please join me in raising a glass of Beefeater Gin (Phil's favorite - "no ice, it will ruin it") to Phil Goodbye Paps, we love you
We will see you again tomorrow love your family.
LEACH & THOMAS FUNERAL HOME
45 S. Highland Ave
Ossining NY, 10562
(914) 941-0840
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Philip 'Paps' Efthimion, please visit our floral store.