Phillip "Mike" Eades

1952 - 2018

Phillip "Mike" Eades

MILLBROOK - Phillip "Mike" Eades, 66, of Poughkeepsie, formerly of Millbrook, passed away at home on March 24, 2018. Mike was born on March 2, 1952 to Phillip W. and Lillian Eades in North Tarrytown, NY. At a young age, Mike moved with his family to Millbrook where he lived for nearly 50 years. He was a communicant of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church in Millbrook, and attended Millbrook schools, Manlius Prep School and Dutchess Community College. Mike worked at IBM for several years until his retirement.

A beloved superstar athlete, Mike was one of Dutchess County's greatest basketball players. He was recognized as a member of the Millbrook Blazers 1,000 Point Club and inducted into the Millbrook High School and Dutchess County Athletic Hall of Fame rosters. While Mike also excelled in football and track, basketball was his passion. He credited much of his success in basketball to the training and sportsmanship instilled by his high school coach and longtime friend Gene Ferrio. Mike's jersey #30 was retired in recognition of his outstanding record on the Millbrook Basketball Team and hangs on display in the Millbrook High School gymnasium. Mike helped launch the very first track team for Millbrook High School, and he mentored many young basketball players at the Town of Washington Recreation Center. Mike was a huge NY Knicks fan, attending many of their games over the years. One of his favorite memories was his time spent with Walt Frazier at his summer basketball camp. March Madness was his favorite time of year, and Mike returned home to our Lord while watching a basketball game on TV.

Unfortunately in 1976, Mike was the victim of a hit-and-run accident which left him a quadriplegic, but he never let this hold him back. He went on to play wheelchair basketball across the country and counseled others with paralysis. After his accident, Mike became an avid swimmer and also played tennis. He was an amazing man and role model to many. His strong spirit, perseverance and positive attitude inspired all who knew him. Mike far outlived the typical life expectancy of most quadriplegics which he credits in part to the expertise of his physical therapist and long-time friend Bill BreMiller. Later in life, he enjoyed socializing with the "River Rats" at Waryas Park, reminiscing about the old days. Mike was currently a sitting Council member of the Historical Schaghticoke Indian Tribe of Kent Connecticut.

On August 29, 1992, Mike married the love of his life and best friend, Melanie S. Eades, at St. Joseph's Church in Millbrook. Their home was filled with love and laughter, a place where family and friends would often gather for holiday celebrations, birthday parties and summer cookouts. Mike was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Mike loved his family and always looked forward to the time spent with them. He especially enjoyed his sister Regina's home cooking, most notably when she made their mother Lillian's signature baked custard, and the weekend pizza parties with his beloved grandchildren Jordan and Aaliyah who affectionately referred to him as "Pop Pop". Mike was fortunate to have had some special long-time friends who meant the world to him including Neil Green, with whom he shared a love for music and sports, and Rob Robinson, Tony Johnson and Steve Freeman who predeceased him. Mike had a strong faith in God which he relied on daily throughout his life.

Mike's family wishes to thank Evercare Choice and the Baptist Home in Rhinebeck for their care and compassion over the past several months. A special thank you to his caring niece Tara Pantalone who was a strong advocate and friend during his stay. We can find comfort in knowing Mike is finally on his feet again dancing with his beloved Mel to Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, the Temptations, Luther Vandross and all their other favorite R&B artists.

Mike was predeceased by his wife, Melanie S. Eades in 2012, his brother, Anthony F. Eades in 1986 and his parents. He is survived by his beloved children, son and daughter-in-law, James and Annmarie Eades of Millbrook, daughters Nicole Eades of Millbrook and Carsheena Woods of Wappingers Falls, brothers Paul Eades of Stanfordville and Larry Eades of New York City, his beloved sister, Regina Eades of Schenectady who he cherished and with whom he shared a special bond, nephew Elliott Johnson Sr., his wife De'yonia and their sons Dey'vion and Elliott Jr of Schenectady, his sister-in-law and dear friend, Valerie Mahler of Pleasant Valley, as well as grandchildren Jordan Eades, Aaliyah Eades, Kashif Johnson with whom Mike shared a special connection, C'joli Johnson, Derrick Lorick Jr., great-grandchildren Nasir Nash and Jamila Johnson, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, April 2nd from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Allen Funeral Home, 3270 Franklin Ave., Millbrook, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 3rd at St. Joseph's Church, Millbrook. Burial will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery in Millbrook. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made on his behalf to the Baptist Home at Brookmeade, Rhinebeck, NY.