Philip Gordon Andrews, 77, of St. Petersburg, FL died Saturday, November 7, 2015 at Bay Pines VA Heath Care System, Bay Pines, FL.
Philip was born in Salem, Massachusetts on May 14, 1938 and graduated from Salem High School. He was the third son of the late John and Marion (McGuire) Andrews.
Philip is survived by one brother, Daniel F. Andrews of Newburyport, MA, several nieces, and many nephews. He is preceded in death by his two brothers, William R. Andrews and Arthur M. Andrews.
As an honorably discharged veteran, Philip served his country as a member of the United States Army and did overseas tours of duty in South Korea and Germany. After military service, Philip was employed for more than 20 years at the South Essex Sewerage District in Salem, MA. A longtime resident of North Salem, he was a member of the Elks and volunteered his time to Shriners charitable causes. Phil had a wonderful sense of humor, a sharp wit and was a carefree spirit. He enjoyed many things over his life, including playing softball at Salem’s Mack Park, hunting, fishing, boating, playing cribbage, reading books, debating / arguing issues, laughing, cold Miller beer, and Philly cigars.
Although Philip lived a frugal lifestyle, he was a very generous man who donated heavily to charitable organizations. His favorite charities were the Shriners and St. Jude Children’s Hospitals. If you feel so inclined to honor Philip, a donation to either of these organizations, in his memory, would be a very nice tribute. Philip will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at the Bay Pines National Cemetery.
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My deep love and respect for Philip Andrews!! . . . he and his Brother Danny were a heroes in the best way. I was a friend and fellow student with them Danny at the Pickering School in Salem in the early 50’s. They were as tough as they were big, and used their size and strength to make sure no one was bullied. I was a timid kid who had no use for confrontation and fighting and Phil and Danny made sure I had no need to fight. I taught for 15 years, first in Catholic High Schools as a Xaverian Brother then in public schools and at Cornell University as a layman. I taught a number of students like Phil and his brother Danny and loved and admired them greatly. Phil has long been in my prayers along with Danny, and will stay there till we meet in heaven. Sympathy to all who have lost a friend. Peter Castaldi
In the Andrews family we all have Uncle Phil stories—I had many. He was always fun to be around and had a great sense of humor and it seemed like adventure just followed him around. There were many occasions when Phil and I hung out together and just had fun. But it wasn’t till he passed away that I learned he was a very generous man who gave heavily to charity—this man who was as tough as nails never gave any of us a clue. Phil I’m proud of you and I will really miss you.
I will truly miss my dear friend Phil. I’ve known him since he moved to Florida. Phil was funny, witty, very strong minded and just a great person to me. Phil will always have a special place in my heart. My thoughts and prayers to all the family. Love, Diane
RIP Uncle Phil. You always reminded me, each and every time I spoke with you, to always “look out for your dad”, your little brother, by “a year and 10 months”. I will do so, until he joins you in heaven. You were a very kind man at heart, despite the rough outer edges. You were always there for me, and I appreciate it more than you knew. I too, like cousin Bill, am so proud of your charitable heart. You will never be forgotten. Love ya, John Andrews