Philip Schildkraut

Philip Schildkraut

Tenafly, NJ and formerly of Port Jervis, NY

With heavy hearts, we share that Mr. Philip Schildkraut, of Tenafly, New Jersey, and formerly of Port Jervis, New York, died on March 7, 2026, in New York City after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 79.

Philip was born on July 6, 1946, in a displaced persons camp in Fürth, Germany, the son of the late William and Bella Schildkraut.

His extraordinary parents survived the Holocaust by living in the forest with a group of more than 100 people, enduring unimaginable hardship. Their resilience profoundly shaped Philip's life. The family rebuilt their lives in New York, living on the Lower East Side, on Ocean Parkway in Brooklyn, and eventually in Port Jervis, New York. Philip remained a devoted son throughout his parents' lives and stayed close to them until their passing in their 80s.

Philip was a New York City middle school math and social studies teacher for 43 years. He began his career in Harlem and later spent more than four decades at C.I.S. 166 Roberto Clemente in the South Bronx. A devoted educator, colleague, and friend, he was also fondly known for his legendary skill at alternate side-of-the-street parking. While living on the Upper West Side, he was often found playing tennis on the courts of Riverside and Central Parks.

Philip had many lifelong passions beyond tennis, including music, swimming, skiing, biking, ping pong, and Seinfeld. He was especially proud of his 1966 Volvo, which he carefully maintained and commuted in for nearly 35 years. He loved his routines, favorite foods, and the simple joys of everyday life.

Port Jervis and the surrounding region held deep meaning for him. He loved driving along the Hawk's Nest on his way to Glen Spey and stopping along the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway to take in and proudly point out the incredible views.

Above all, Philip was a devoted father and community member. He showed his love in simple, generous ways, often driving anyone who needed a ride and later becoming a proud and devoted follower of his children's college sports teams. Known for his humor, perseverance, and gentle demeanor, he touched many lives through his kindness, generosity, and quiet acts of service. Philip will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie Smith; his daughter, Alexandra Wasch (Evan Wasch), and their children, Kaia and Zoe; his son, Benjamin Schildkraut (Katie Peabody); his sister, Gail Epstein (Larrie Epstein); his niece, Faryn Roy (Dr. Lance Roy), and their children, Bella and Brynn. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Bella Schildkraut.

Burial will take place at Beth El Cemetery in Port Jervis, New York.

Memorial contributions may be made to Dorot, 171 West 85th Street, New York, NY.

Funeral arrangements are by Gray Parker Funeral Home, 100 East Main Street, Port Jervis, NY 12771, 845-856-5191. For additional information, or to send a condolence note to the family, please visit www.grayparkerfuneralhome.com.