Philip Martin Fuchs

Philip Martin Fuchs, 73, of Chatham, NJ, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Phil was a self-made man who took risks to accomplish his goals. He brought stability to those he loved, being a shoulder to lean on for advice and support. He will be remembered for his dry sense of humor and engaging smile.
Born in Orange, NJ, he lived in Millburn briefly and resided in Livingston, NJ during his formative years. Phil graduated from Livingston High School in 1970. Following his high school graduation, Phil spent a year volunteering at Kfar Aza Kibbutz in Israel working in agricultural roles within the community. In 1975, Phil graduated from the University of North Dakota with a bachelor's degree in education.
Phil began his professional career in the jewelry industry in Indiana shortly after graduation. He worked in both manufacturing and retailing for a successful 45-year career. He founded his first retail jewelry store, Phillips & Co, at Olcott Square in Bernardsville, NJ, and in 1985 launched Phillips and Fredricks Jewelers. The store location moved to the King's Shopping Plaza in Bernardsville in 2003. Phillips and Fredricks was a staple of the Bernardsville community until Phil's retirement in 2021. Phil was a member of the Gemological Institute of America, the American Gem Society, and was certified in diamond grading and evaluation.
Possessing a strong work ethic and energy to spare, Phil began a second career in real estate development in Chatham and the surrounding area. In his leisure time, he was an avid reader of the New York Times, and crossword puzzler.
Philip is pre-deceased by his parents, Merwin Alan Fuchs and Caryl Weiss Fuchs. He is survived by his devoted wife of 26 years, Barbara; daughters Anna Fuchs and Allison Fuchs, stepdaughter Larissa Mehlfelder (Christopher); and grandsons Brandon and Zachary Mehlfelder. Philip is also survived by his sister, Deborah Williams.
A Celebration of Life Service and Buffet Luncheon will take place at the Madison Hotel,1 Convent Road, Morristown on Sunday, October 19, 2025 from 2:00-5:00 p.m. in the Garden Room. The service will begin at 2:30. A private interment of his ashes will take place following his Celebration of Life.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Philip's name may be made to the Chatham Emergency Squad or Atlantic Visiting Nurse.