Monday, September 13, 2021
As Bill Boyd mentioned previously, I have sung with Phil in the Barbershop Society for the better part of the fourteen years I've belonged (an eye blink compared to Phil's 35+). When we first became acquainted I was immediately impressed by Phil's ready smile, cheerful personality and, being folllically challenged myself, his impeccable coiffure (best in the chapter!)
Phil and Helen are the only true "snow birds" I have ever known. You could gauge his reappearance at rehearsals in late March/early April by the lack of a snow threat and the perfect moment to begin preening your lawn on the South Shore. I have always thought that Phil's skill as an entertainer was enhanced greatly by his performing with the much larger Florida chapter. He never wasted the opportunity to "sell" a song from his position in the front row.
In late 2017, when I had a major vision issue, Phil (and Bill) readily volunteered to drive me and Bill Flynn (my passenger) to rehearsals and performances. There was always a lot of good natured ribbing about respective driving abilities at night especially since all of us suffered from difficulties with cataracts.
During the pandemic, our chapter held zoom meetings in lieu of rehearsals. It was always a reassuring part of the week to see Phil on his computer with Helen in the background on hers. Once we resumed live meetings n Hingham last Spring everyone, including Phil, was looking forward to performing in public again. Then, suddenly, neither Bill nor I could contact Phil and any calls went unreturned. When we finally heard of the passing of both Helen and Phil, it was a real gut punch. My only solace is that they're still together.
The final takeaway for me is that I am a lucky and better person for having known and sung with Phil. He was a great guy!
