Philip McGonegal

MCGONEGAL, Jr., Philip H.

Philip H. McGonegal Jr., a devoted family man, proud veteran, and respected professional, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 88.

Born in New York City, on February 26, 1937, Phil was the beloved son of Philip H. McGonegal Sr. and Alice O'Connell McGonegal, and stepson to Miriam Howard McGonegal. He grew up in a close-knit family as one of six children (Mary, Helen, Tom, Virginia and Alice), surrounded by the love and camaraderie of his five siblings. These early bonds helped form the foundation for a life rich in family and faith.

Phil met the love of his life, Carol Ann Jacobus, when they were just 17 years old. The two were married on April 30, 1960, and celebrated 65 wonderful years together. Together, they built a loving and vibrant family.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Patricia McGonegal Grissom. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol; his children, Kathy McGonegal Parker (Randy), Philip McGonegal III (Kathy), Kelly McGonegal Smith (Tim), Matt McGonegal (Michelle), and Brian McGonegal (Bryan Shealer); nine cherished grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren.

Phil graduated from Seton Hall University in 1959, where he not only received a strong academic foundation but also forged enduring friendships that lasted a lifetime. Among his closest friends were the late Joe Williams and Jerry Egan, who remained treasured companions through the decades.

Following graduation, Phil served his country honorably as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army's Adjutant General's Corps. His professional career began at IBM, where he worked from 1961 to 1987 as a Human Resources Executive. After his time in the corporate world, Phil redirected his talents to Catholic education, serving as Business Manager and Assistant to the President at Marist High School, and later as Director of Finance and Operations at St. Pius X Catholic High School until his retirement in 1999.

A man of deep faith and community spirit, Phil was an active volunteer with the Knights of Columbus, St. Vincent de Paul Society, and St. Pius X Catholic High School. He spent over a decade supporting student athletics by managing concession stands and serving as President of the Athletic Association Board.

Phil will be remembered for his steadfast integrity, unwavering love for his family, and his quiet but powerful commitment to service. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched through his work, faith, and family.

Funeral Services

A Funeral Mass celebrating Phil's life will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 1:00 PM, at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 1406 Hearst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30319. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service, and a gathering will follow in the Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to one of the following organizations that reflect Phil's values of compassion, service, and community: American Red Cross or St. Vincent de Paul.