Phillip J. Stella

PHILLIP J. STELLA, age 78; died peacefully and suddenly at his home on July 14, 2024, just one day after the Celebration of Life for his beloved wife of 56 years, Nona (nee Beemer), who preceded him in death on May 26, 2024; loving father of Peter (wife Rossana) and Andrew (wife Laura); devoted grandfather of Gabriella, Luciano, Zola and Frances; cherished son of the late Peter and Carmella (nee Arena) Stella; brother of Michael Stella (wife Mary Jane); friend/amigo, neighbor, professional coach, teacher, colleague & mentor to many. 

Phil was born on March 6, 1946 in Chicago. Phil graduated from Oak Park & River Forest High School in 1964 before enrolling at the University of Illinois where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Radio & Television in 1968 and a Master's Degree in Television Production and Programming in 1970. While at the University of Illinois, Phil joined the Phi Kappa Alpha Fraternity and was a member of the Kappa Tau Alpha communications honor society. Phil married Nona Beemer on June 8, 1968 and shared many laughs throughout 56 years.

From 1968 to 1970, Phil worked at the production department of WICD-TV, Champaign, Illinois, advancing to the role of production manager.

In 1971, Phil moved to Cleveland where he went to work at Normandy High School. Phil supervised and designed all studio production activities for the Instructional Television Service operated by the Parma City School System. Phil trained and supervised a student production crew and considered that time with those students as a highlight of his career.

From 1979-1990, Phil managed employee communication and management training functions at Progressive Insurance. He worked directly with chairman Peter B. Lewis and was significantly impacted by his time with Mr. Lewis whom Phil considered a lifelong mentor & friend.

Following Progressive, Phil launched Effective Training & Communication, Inc. where he empowered business leaders to communicate more confidently and credibly, for 32 years. Phil served as a consultant, trainer and executive coach and collaborated with hundreds of corporate and association groups around the country. Phil was a longtime member of the Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE) and International Television Association (ITVA).

Phil took tremendous joy serving on the Cleveland Faculty of the Goldman Sachs 10,0000 Small Businesses Initiative where he facilitated two full-day models and worked with over 900 entrepreneurs and small business owners. Phil served on the faculty at the University of Phoenix from 2002-2015 and worked as a career coach at CareerCurve from 2008-20015. As an award-winning freelance writer, Phil authored over 500 articles in national and local business, industry and association publications.

Phil loved the Cleveland Metroparks, the Cleveland Art and Natural History Museums, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (where he was a charter member), Little Italy (Mamma Santa's, Corbo's, Murray Hill), traveling nationally & internationally (a love he shared with and learned from his parents) with his beloved wife, and spending trips, holidays & summers with his kids and grandkids. Phil enjoyed jazz, classical, progressive rock and telling tales of his days as a drummer in high school and college. He loved 'The Godfather', the movies of 'Monty Python', and especially, 'Young Frankenstein' and 'Blazing Saddles'. Phil had his own unique beat to life.

Phil loved Happy Hours with his wife, Nona, and shared a passion for craft beer (Great Lakes was his favorite) & local wines; Phil always preferred supporting local businesses over larger ones, including Heinen's grocery store which opened in Phil's community of Mayfield Village in 1972. Phil & Nona will be missed there where they could (usually) be found chatting in the wine section with customers & staff.

Phil loved to talk, to which anyone who met him can attest. He was always quick with a joke and a story. His voice filled the room with warmth and laughter. He enjoyed helping others and volunteering his time with a number of organizations, including March of Dimes for a decade. Phil was always supportive of his sons' career and educational plans, both nationally and internationally. His advice and encouragement were well appreciated. We are thrilled he is back with his parents whom he missed dearly, especially his father, Peter, who died one day before Phil's birthday in 1977.

Many of Phil and Nona's happiest moments were spent in their house of 42 years, in Mayfield Village. They found peace and joy in sitting outside, chatting with neighbors and watching the dogs, birds, squirrels and deer.

Contributions may be made in memory of Phil to the Cleveland Metroparks.

Cremation by DeJohn Crematory. 

MEMORIAL CELEBRATION SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 1st ~ DETAILS BELOW
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