Phillip Michael McGrath Jr.

Phillip (Phill) Michael McGrath, Jr., Agoura Hills, CA, passed away on July 1, 2024, at 97 years old, assisted by a wonderful team of caregivers and hospice team. Our family is forever grateful for the love and care he received.

Phill was born in Massachusetts on July 24, 1926, to Florence and Phillip McGrath, Sr. They soon moved to the coast of Maine where they lived until Phill was a teen. Their family owned the Gilbert’s Lobster Pound and a local restaurant (now the Contented Sole) that served the community near Pemaquid Beach where Phill worked in the summers. The family eventually moved out West where Phill graduated from LA City College. He became an elementary school teacher and met his soon-to-be wife Marjorie Schaaf. They married in 1956 in Westwood, CA. Phill got his Master of Education and retired as an esteemed elementary school Principal in LAUSD at age 60.

Phill was an extraordinary tennis player in college and played for a short time as a professional. After his tennis career, he began to play golf until his early 90’s. After he retired from the LAUSD, he worked at North Ranch Country Club as a Marshall, Starter, and in the pro shop. Phill enjoyed mingling with the pro golfers that frequented the course and on his days off he played golf at “Little Westlake” with a group of about 10 men who became lifelong friends. Phill’s secret to longevity was to never take a cart when playing golf, as he always walked the course.

Phill and Marge traveled extensively after he retired. They frequented Paris, London, Scotland, Jamaica, and Ireland. He delightfully became a professional Grandpa to his granddaughter, Lindsey, and chauffeured her to many activities with great pride. He volunteered at Lindsey’s elementary school in Agoura Hills, along with his wife Marge, and never missed a softball game at Oaks Christian High School where Lindsey played. He even continued to support the Varsity team after Lindsey’s graduation. Phill took care of his wife through her cancer journey and never left her side until she died in 2003. He also took excellent care of his mother, who died soon after, at age 103.

In 2020, Phill moved to Atria Las Posas, a beautiful Assisted Living Community in Camarillo, where he enjoyed the many activities provided and quickly made friends. He had a keen wit that entertained everyone around him and became a favorite of the staff. His rescued dog Buddy lived for 18 years and was a favorite with the residents.

Phill is preceded in death by his parents - Florence and Phill, his stepfather - Jay, his 2 sisters - Phyllis and Marguerite, his nephew - Michael, and his wife - Marge. Phill leaves behind his daughter - Betsy Jeu De Vine, his granddaughter - Lindsey Jeu De Vine, his adored nieces and nephews, his best friend - Dorothy, and the Hillrise Drive neighbors and friends who will cherish his memory.

A private celebration of life will be held for close family and friends at his favorite golf course after a graveside service in Westlake Village. If you would like to honor Phill, please consider donating to your favorite university’s golf or tennis program.