Phil is survived by his wife, the lovely and loving Saint Judy (JLo), who was also his Very Best Friend while married 63 years. They lived a happy life in many wonderful cities and welcomed five animated and very different children along the way: Traci, Greg, Karen Sue, Philip (Julie) and Angela Hughey (Tim), who gave him six very special loves, his grandchildren Lexi, Jillian, Philip, Andrew, Ashlyn and Abigail. He is also also survived by his sisters Shirley Wilbur (Bob), and Phyllis West (Bill), brother-in-laws Rick and Paul and many special nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind numerous friends, some lifelong and others new, and the many wonderful memories they shared having lived in Indianapolis, Charleston, Cincinnati, Lexington, Bonita Springs, Ft. Myers Beach, Naples, Dallas, back to Bonita Springs and finally back to Dallas. We love hearing his stories!
Born July 2, 1939 in Indianapolis, he graduated from Cathedral High School and Butler University. Many accomplishments under his belt during his time in school, including a wife and three kids (the other two came later!), All City and All State Quarterback as well as MVP for the Irish. A memorable life highlight was being enshrined into the Butler Athletic Hall of Fame for his football accomplishments as QB. He wore the Butler ball cap with pride and often.
He joined IBM in 1962 and spent his entire career with IBM in the sales sector, having relocated in several states in various sales and management positions. He particularly enjoyed working with elementary schools using technology to enhance student learning.
Phil was a Founding Board of Governors member at the Strand Country Club in Naples, Florida as well as a member of Worthington Country Club, also in Florida. Phil was also a Kentucky Colonel and a University of Kentucky Fellow.
Phil and Judy enjoyed their retirement years in Florida and Texas making many new friends and always enjoyed family outings. Phil enjoyed golf and tennis, although acknowledging he would never master them. His humorous Christmas newsletters were looked forward to by all. He was a lifelong avid sports fan and enjoyed a spirited political debate as well as volunteer activity. He was a member of several different Catholic parishes over the years. Although Phil excelled at his athletic and business pursuits, he was most happy when involved in family activities.
Known to many as Dad, PK, Papaw, Favorite Uncle Phil, Bobo, Studmuffin, Big Phil and #25. He had something special for everyone: “what’s that up on the ceiling”, “do you have any Snicker Bars”, Belly Bumps, head snuggies, White Castles, telling corny jokes, “I’ll leave you in my will” and his love for house hunting without a desire to purchase.
Phil was preceded in death by his parents Herschel and Lillian, and his sister Sandra (Jim Williams). He leaves behind numerous friends and their many wonderful memories having lived in Indianapolis, Charleston, Cincinnati, Lexington, Bonita Springs, Ft. Myers Beach, Naples, Dallas, back to Bonita Springs and finally back to Dallas.
Services will be private at his request. A memorial service will be held in Indianapolis at a later date and many celebrations. Memorial contributions to Cathedral High School or Love Thy Neighbor for the good work that they do and are appreciated:
- Cathedral High School: 5225 E 56th St, Indianapolis IN 46226; - Cathedral High School: 5225 E 56th St, Indianapolis IN 46226;
https://www.gocathedral.com/giving/make-a-gift
(Phil Long, Class of 1957)
- Love Thy Neighbor: 2201 Long Prairie Rd, Ste 107-706, Flower Mound, TX. 75022;
www.ltnlovethyneighbor.org
(paypal) or
www.northtexasgivingday.org/love-thy-neighbor-inc
(Phil Long)