Philip E. McDonald Service Information

Philip E. McDonald of Warwick passed away peacefully on July 6, 2020 following a brief illness.  He was surrounded by his family. He was 86. 

Philip was married to his best friend, his love, Patricia Peyton McDonald for 62 years.  Together they shared a journey through life that was special and rare. 

Born in New York, NY on traditional Memorial Day, known as Decoration Day, May 30^th.  He always cherished his birthdate and the significance of this day to his country, recognizing those who served in the military and gave the ultimate sacrifice.  The son of the late Joseph and Mildred (Landry) McDonald, he was preceded in death by his sister, Joan Haarmann, and his brothers, Dr. Joseph McDonald and Robert McDonald.  He will be remembered for his brilliant blue eyes, welcoming smile, kind and gentle heart.

He attended Cardinal Hayes High School before graduating from Power Memorial Academy.  He attended the City College of New York earning a degree in English.

Growing up during the “Golden Age of Radio” had a strong influence on Phil.  As a child and young man, he enjoyed listening to the radio, especially to sports, music and the news.  He turned this passion for radio into a career in broadcast management.  Always looking to identify a new concept or innovative approach, he launched the first news and talk radio station in Cincinnati.  For his accomplishments in the radio industry he was recognized with the Abe Lincoln Award presented to distinguished broadcasters.  Phil was recognized for outstanding service through programming and community involvement, unusual insight and discerning leadership into community needs with a focus on local police and youth leagues. 

Phil was also appointed a Kentucky Colonel, the highest honor bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky. It is recognition of an individual’s noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to our community, state, and nation.

His love of God and family served to guide his actions. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, Phil modeled the importance of family and of being together.  He loved a celebration, usually the center of attention, engaging with all, telling stories and leading lively conversation.  As his siblings passed, the youngest in the family, Phil took on the patriarch role of a large Irish family and remained connected through the years to his nieces, nephews and their children.

He enjoyed playing golf, vacationing at the beach with his family and following his favorite sports teams, especially the Yankees and Giants.  An avid reader, often completing a book a day in his retirement only after attacking the Sunday NY Times crossword, daily local crossword and reading the local papers.  He maintained and completed a daily exercise regimen to stay healthy making sure he was finished in time to pick-up his grandchildren from school.  School pickup was a “chore” he embraced and cherished for many years.  Pop, as he was affectionately called, learned about their day, discussed sports, and listened to music on the ride home.

He was a true gentleman, with a soft voice and kind heart.  His quick wit and sense of humor were hard to match.  He is loved, missed, and provided memories we will forever cherish.

Philip leaves behind his loving wife Patricia, known fondly to him as Trish and his children, Philip (Cheryl) of Doylestown, Elizabeth Woodward (Jim) of Furlong, and Noel McDonald of Warwick; his grandchildren, Meghan, Philip, Peyton, and Logan. 

A celebration to honor Phil’s life will be planned for a future date when it is safe for friends and family to travel and be together.

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