Phil was a life-long “Go getter” and managed through all the hardships life threw his way. He was raised in Corning, living with his grandparents. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. From 1948 – 1952. He served on the U.S.S. Salem for a year, until he was deployed to Korea and fought courageously during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge he was employed by Corning Glass before finding his career with the New York State Troopers, he was stationed in Syracuse, Franklinville, and Wellsville. He climbed the ranks to BCI Investigator, retiring in 1968. He was a life-long member of the NYS Troopers Association, serving as both secretary and president. Outside of his employment he was a member and organist for the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. Having the gift of gab, he was able to start a conversation with anyone, he enjoyed attending the NYSTA dinners to catch up with old friends, playing piano for nursing homes, baking his famous chocolate chip cookies, making homemade pizza and lasagna, and sharing many stories with his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. He was a member of the Wellsville American Legion Post 702.
He is survived by: five children, William (Joan) Smith of Hollywood, FL, Carol Behr of Wellsville, Michael (Marcy) Smith of Wellsville, Laura (Richard) Daniels of Wellsville, and Grace Smith of Wellsville; 10 grandchildren; and 23 great grandchildren. In addition to his mother, and wife of 68 years, he was predeceased by an infant son, Daniel Eugene Smith and a son-in-law, Gerald Behr.
Friends are invited to call on Thursday, November 7, 2024, from 6 pm to 8 pm at the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home of Wellsville, 34 West State Street. His funeral will be Friday, November 8, 2024, at 1 pm in the funeral home, military honors will follow at the conclusion of the service. Burial will be at the family’s convenience in Woodlawn Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to the Allegany County Comfort House, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, New York 14895. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.