Philip J Powers

Philip Joseph Powers, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, uncle and loyal friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on December 22, 2024, at the age of 85. Born on February 21, 1939, in Canton, MA, Philip was the beloved son of Albert and Jeanette Powers and grew up in a large and loving family.

As a proud athlete and graduate of Canton High School, Phil's early years in Canton laid a strong foundation for a life marked by dedication and service. He served his country with honor as a veteran of the US Navy, and upon returning to civilian life, he embarked on a long and successful career as an elevator mechanic with Montgomery Elevator, where his expertise and work ethic were widely respected. He also worked for Otis, Westinghouse, and Beckwith Elevator, all along a life-long union member of the National Elevator Industry. Honorably he was an auxiliary member of the Canton Fire Department.

Throughout his life, Phil remained deeply connected to his roots in Canton. His love for sports was evident through his active involvement and leadership in high school sports and continued with his participation on the Knights of Coumbus softball team, where he not only showcased his athletic abilities but also strengthened his bonds with fellow teammates and friends, including a memorable moment sliding into home plate, breaking his neck, and forever having a story to tell!

Phil's love for his family was deep and sincere. He was a devoted father to his children, Joanne Williams and her husband John of Medford, the late Philip Michael Powers, Dianne Wischmeier and her husband Joe of Tavernier, Florida, and Kathleen Uhorchak and her husband Steve of Cary, North Carolina. His role as a grandfather to his grandchildren, Krystle Marie Nelson, Kevin Joseph Jean, and Philip “Chase” Uhorchak, filled him with immense pride and joy. He was a loving great-grandfather of Andrew Thomas Nelson, Henry Joseph Nelson, Eli Philip Nelson, and Zoey Belle Jean. He was a supportive and loving brother to Jeanette M. Spence of Canton, Richard A. Powers of Plymouth, the late Lawrence V. Powers, Steven P. Powers of Bridgewater, Albert N. Powers of Worcester, and the late Maureen L. Stringer. He is predeceased by his best friend and companion, Nancy Franco. His family members will forever treasure the memories and the steadfast love he provided.

Whether you knew him as Philip, Phil, Dad, Papa or Papa PJ, you will remember his quick wit, kind heart, and readiness to lend a helping hand. His presence was a source of stability and strength, and he will be greatly missed by all those whose lives he touched. Respectfully he was also a friend of Bill W. for 29 years.

As we bid farewell to Phil, we celebrate him through his love for the beach, music, movies, history, kids, and the many dogs he loved to spoil. His legacy and wisdom will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

A ceremony will be held to honor and remember Phil. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but we will always remember his words of encouragement “One Day at a Time” and “Have a Magical Day”.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to New England Donor Services, 60 First Avenue, Waltham, MA 02451 or at https://neds.org/give/

Visiting Hours will be held Monday, 12/30 from 4-7 p.m. at the Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, 12/31 at St. Oscar Romero Church at 10:00 a.m. Burial to follow at Knollwood Memorial Park.

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