Philip John Read

Philip John Read obituary, Salem, MA

Philip John Read

Philip Read Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Murphy Funeral Home - Salem on Mar. 21, 2025.

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It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Philip John Read, 84 on March 20, 2025. Born in Providence, RI, he was a beloved son of Herman Milton and Margaret (Martin) Read. Phil was a devoted partner to Bill Graham for over 50 years and the loving brother of H. Milton Read and his wife Nancy.
Phil cherished attending family functions with his four nephews and their families; Jeff and Donna Read and their children Tara and Ashley; David and Kim Read and their children Branden, Samantha, Spencer and Sophie; Stephen and Carol Read and their children Austin, Garrett and Stephanie; Brad and Mel Read and their children Kyle and Lindsey. He will be dearly missed by all!
Phil lived a life full of love, kindness, and dedication to his family, friends, and community. Upon graduation from the University of Rhode Island, Phil began military service, achieving the rank of Captain in the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps. After completing two combat tours in Vietnam, he entered the Episcopal Divinity School in Cambridge, MA. He maintained his commitment to the episcopal church serving as Organist and Choirmaster at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Beverly, MA.
Phil worked as a real estate agent for many years serving the North Shore community before dedicating his time to help his partner manage the Beautiful Things Flower and Gift shop in Salem, MA.
A service in his honor will be announced through family members in the near future.
To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of
Philip John Read, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

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Sign Philip Read's Guest Book

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May 14, 2025

Sylvia Robinson Corrigan posted to the memorial.

April 23, 2025

Paul R posted to the memorial.

April 10, 2025

Joseph Saffron posted to the memorial.

5 Entries

Sylvia Robinson Corrigan

May 14, 2025

I am remembering Phil from seminary days at the Episcopal Divinity School (then ETS - Episcopal theological School). He was a great classmate and friend.
Fondly,
Sylvia Robinson Corrigan EDS 1973

Paul R

April 23, 2025

Phil was a friend of our family for over 50 years, starting with his serving as the junior and senior choir director at St. Peter's Church in Beverly. He brought laughter, good stories, and faithful friendship to our lives.

Joseph Saffron

April 10, 2025

We met in 1963 as 2/Lts; went to Viet Nam together and have been friends ever since. I will sorely miss Phil's wit, kindness and friendship. Merceda and l send our sincere sympathy and prayers.
.Joe and Merceda Saffron

Beverly Popielski

March 25, 2025

My deepest sympathy to his family and friends in the loss of Phil. I have many good memories of him while working at Carlson Real Estate
May he Rest In Peace
Sincerely,
Beverly Popielski
J Barrett Realty

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Murphy Funeral Home - Salem

85 Federal Street, Salem, MA 01970

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Sign Philip Read's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 14, 2025

Sylvia Robinson Corrigan posted to the memorial.

April 23, 2025

Paul R posted to the memorial.

April 10, 2025

Joseph Saffron posted to the memorial.