Obituary of Philip Messina

Philip Messina, 74, a retired banker and humanitarian, died peacefully at home on February 4th, surrounded by his family. Following his surgery for brain cancer in November, 2017, Philip was at home receiving the affectionate and supportive care of his wife, Phyllis, their three children and their spouses, their seven grandchildren, and the company of many. many friends. Philip was a devoted father, grandfather and friend. He was an extremely warm and generous man , with the most beautiful smile, a beacon of light that shone upon everyone blessed enough to be graced by his company. He was a true gentleman, modest and simple, altruistic and charitable. Philip had the gift of always making those around him feel welcomed and special, be they family, friend or stranger. His gentle demeanor, common sense approach to life, and dedication to hard work landed him a job as a bank teller in Columbia Federal Savings Bank in Woodhaven NY. and eventually carried him to the highest honor, President and CEO of the expanded company, now New York Community Bank. He had an uncanny knack of inspiring others to be the best version of themselves, and defined success not by what one had, but by who one was as a human being. A grounded and humble man, he was an exemplary role model not only in the workplace, but in the community where he gave his time and services to the Lions Club, the YMCA, and most recently serving as a Board Member of the Society of St. Vincent dePaul Diocesan Council. Philip welcomed challenges. especially on the green. A passionate golfer in Naples Florida and on Long Island, Philip enjoyed outings with many dear friends and was proud to be one of the oldest standing members of the Indian Hills Country Club in Fort Salonga. He always strived to better his game both on and off the course, enjoying gentle competition and stimulating interaction. Music was especially dear to his heart. Whether he was strumming "Michelle" on guitar or playing "Girl from Ipanema" on piano, he had a soft and magical touch that could ease the mind, spark imagination, and inspire creativity in all those who were listening. Besides his wife Phyllis, Philip leaves behind; his daughter, Marybeth Seus, her husband, Karl, their children, Jacob, Natalie, Brooke, Brielle and Noah; his son, Steven and his wife, Kim; his son, Christopher, his wife, Jennifer, and their children, Milo and Gio ; and two siblings: his sister, Margaret Timmes and his brother, Albert. In lieu of flowers and to honor his life and memory please consider a memorial donation to either: Huntington Hospital Neurology Department, Dr. Kerr Administrator, Huntington, NY or, the Society of Saint Vincent dePaul, 249 Broadway, Bethpage, NY 11714 A Mass celebrating Philip's life will be held Saturday, March 17th at 11 am at St. Philip Neri Church on Main Street, Northport, NY.

https://support.northwell.edu/in-memory-of-philip-messina