Mr. Philip Robert Harwood

Philip Robert Harwood, 81, of Malone, New York passed away peacefully at home on November 16, 2025. Born on November 20, 1943, in Malone, Phil was proud to have been raised in the community that shaped his life and values.

He graduated from Franklin Academy High School in 1962, where he excelled in athletics – playing football, baseball, and earning First Team All Northern honors in basketball. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving with distinction in the Philippines and Vietnam. Following his military service, Phil returned to Malone and began a long career with Alcoa then General Motors in Massena, where he worked for 30 years until his retirement in 2000. He and his wife also owned and operated Upstate Memorial in Malone for nearly two decades, serving families in the community with care and compassion.

Phil married Meredith Slack on July 26, 1969, beginning a partnership of love and devotion that spanned more than 56 years. He is survived by his wife, Meredith, his daughter, Kerry and her partner, Sam Reynolds and his grandchildren, Maggie and Luke Reynolds. He also leaves behind his brother, Tony Harwood, his sister, Judy (Darcy) Havill and sister-in-law, Debbie Harwood. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Charlotte Harwood, his brother, Michael and his beloved daughter, Krista Lynn who passed at age 3.

Phil loved the outdoors and cherished time spent at the family camp on Lake Titus. He enjoyed fishing, boating, and was often seen swimming in the lake as soon as the ice went out. His favorite saying was, "If the bugs aren't biting, the fish aren't biting." He found joy in simple pleasures – horse races in Saratoga, visits to Newport, Rhode Island and above all, time spent with his family. Everyone who knew Phil was touched by his quick-witted sense of humor, warm smile, and easy-going nature.

In honor of Phil's lifelong love for the Amvets, the Legion, and sharing a cold Genesee with friends, those wishing to do so may make a donation in his memory to the local veterans' organizations he held so close to his heart. Phil never sought recognition, but he believed deeply in supporting the men and women who served. Any contribution made in his name is simply a reflection of that spirit.

A family memorial will be held in Malone at a later date to celebrate Phil's life.