Philip Joseph Smith Jr.

Philip J. Smith, Jr., age 97, of Royal Oak, Michigan, passed away on August 9, 2025. He was born on March 19, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Philip J. Smith Sr. and Blanche (Kaufman) Smith. Growing up, Philip was active as an altar boy at his family's church as well as in the Boy Scouts where he earned the highest rank of Eagle Scout . After graduating from Brooklyn Technical High School, Philip enlisted in the United States Army near the end of WW II. Following his military service, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Queens College, NY. His first job brought him to Detroit, where he worked for M&T Chemical, a plating company in Ferndale. He later joined Eaton Corporation as a Senior Research Chemist and Chrome Plating expert, a career he enjoyed until his retirement. Outside of work, he sang bass in a barber shop quartet, dabbled in bowling and played the organ and trumpet. On September 19, 1953, Philip married the love of his life Marjorie, whom he met at a YMCA/YWCA dance mixer, at the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Detroit. Together, they made their home in Royal Oak, where they raised their family and shared 72 years of marriage. Philip and Marge were avid landscapers, taking great pride in their beautiful yard filled with flowers and trees that welcomed the abundant local wildlife. They also dedicated years of service to the community through the Royal Oak Historical Society, Historical Guild and other volunteer endeavors. Philip enjoyed meeting new people, taking an interest in their cultural background, and often learning a few words or phrases from their own language to surprise them with a greeting or holiday email. A lifelong learner, Philip embraced new technology and enjoyed using his computer to research and expand his knowledge. His curiosity and love of discovery never faded. Philip was the beloved husband of Marjorie (Barringer); proud father of David (Shelly) Smith and the late Brian Smith; dear brother of Blanche Smith. He is also survived by his sister-in-law and several nieces and nephews who thought the world of him. A funeral service will not be held per Philip's request. A private inurnment will take place. To share a memory or offer condolences, please visit www.sullivanfuneraldirectors.com.