Thomas A. Phillips

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas A. Phillips. Tom passed peacefully in his sleep on October 5, 2021. He had been bravely battling cancer with his happy-go-lucky attitude.

Tom was predeceased by his father, Gordon and wife, Marilyn Phillips; step-father Curtis Bates; father and mother-in-law, Walter and Eleanor Welch; and brothers-in-law John Welch and John McNeish.

Tom was a graduate of Chenango Valley High School and Hudson Valley Community College. He spent the majority of his professional career at work in the family business, Phillips Foundry, holding various positions culminating as the President/CEO. The past nine years, Tom could be found walking the halls of Broome Tioga BOCES where he found his passion for working with children with special needs. He discovered that working as a teacher aide with the children not only provided them the support they needed, but also deeply enriched his life. Additionally, he formed many lasting friendships with the faculty and staff.

Tom is survived by his wife, Judy; sons, Kyle (Rachael) and Brendan; mother, Patricia Bates; brothers, Michael (Victoria) and John (Elaine); sisters-in-law, Kathy McNeish, Grace Welch, and Betsy (Edward) Waples. He is also survived by a large, loving extended family, and life-long friends Hugh and Marcia Reed.

Tom will be forever remembered for putting the needs of those he loved, especially his sons, above his own. Happy memories of Tom will be a constant in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. We now picture Tom comfortably sitting in his recliner watching his favorite sports with a Gatorade in hand and his beloved dog, Rudy, happily resting by his side.

The family will receive friends at the Wm. R. Chase & Son Funeral Home, 737 Chenango St., Port Dickinson, NY 13901 on Monday, October 11, 2021 from 4:00-7:00 pm. A celebration of Tom’s life will follow immediately at 7:00 pm.

In memory of Tom and in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Broome County Dog Shelter, 110 Cutler Pond Road, Binghamton, 13905.