Obituary of John D. Phillips

John D. Phillips, a 50-year resident of Gilgo Beach, NY and recently of Glen Cove, NY, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2024.

John leaves behind his adoring wife of 64 years, Sallie Whitesell Phillips. He is also survived by his loving children and their spouses: John David Phillips and Jennifer Lauro of Topsfield, MA, Andrew James and Elaine Phillips of Manhasset, NY, and Susan Lynne and Scott Fisher of Little River, SC. A devoted grandfather, John will be greatly missed by his five grandchildren: Daniel Phillips, Katherine Holland and husband Taylor, Rebecca Phillips, Hannah Phillips and husband Michael Duch, and Sarah Phillips.

Born in Newton, NJ, John grew up in Brooklyn, NY where he attended Brooklyn Technical High School. After graduating from Cornell University, where he met Sallie, he worked in the structural steel industry, the wholesale liquor business, and the computer world. For 25 years, John ran J.D. Phillips, Inc., a data processing consulting firm with Sallie by his side.

John’s passion was lacrosse. He and Sallie shared this interest and travelled the world to help promote the sport. He served for many years as the general manager and assistant coach of the Long Island Lacrosse Club, winning 18 US Club Lacrosse Championships. He was a longtime contributor to Team USA, garnering 3 international gold medals as Team Manager. He was an assistant coach for the New York Saints professional indoor lacrosse team winning one championship. John sat on the Boards of Directors for the Long Island Metropolitan Lacrosse Foundation, US Lacrosse, and the United States Club Lacrosse Association. He would eventually serve as Executive Director of the International Lacrosse Federation.

For his many contributions to the game, John was inducted into the US Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 2006.

After his retirement, John volunteered as a lacrosse and football coach at Seaford High School.

There will be a Memorial Service and social gathering for John at Christ Episcopal Church in Manhasset on November 9 at 11:00am.

Donations in his memory may be made to Alzheimer's Foundation of America: 322 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10001 or donate online, Click Here