Philip M.
Richmond
A bright candle that was lit
for 61 years burned out after a devastatingly long battle with cancer when
Phil, whose spirit is larger than life, passed away peacefully, at home,
surrounded by his family on Wednesday, May 5, 2010. Even though his
physical body is no longer with us, his powerful presence will be felt by those
who knew and loved him. Etched in our memories, no one will ever forget
how Phil interacted with others, always making friends wherever he went.
He was a rare individual who took time to appreciate the simple things in life,
and he lived his life fully, the way life is meant to be lived.
Phil
was born October 3, 1948, son of Dorothy Underwood Richmond, and the late Cecil
Richmond. In addition to his mother he
is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Jacquelyn Emmick Richmond; beloved
children, with their spouses, Paul and Stacy Richmond of Horseheads, Carrie and
Jeremy Hooey, and Krissy and Pete Ruhmel, all of Elmira; six adored
grandchildren, Jenna and Allison Richmond, Francesca “Frankie” and Piper Hooey,
and Ian and Delaney Ruhmel. Also surviving
are brothers and sisters-in-law, Jack and Lorraine Richmond of Nevada, Gary and
Sandy Richmond of Florida, Bobby Richmond of Elmira; along with several nieces,
nephews, cousins, and in-laws. Phil
worked as a salesman for Seneca Beverage for over 30 years. An avid golfer, he loved following all
sports. His favorite teams were the
Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, and Pittsburgh Steelers. A devoted son, husband, father and
grandfather Phil treasured the time spent with his family. Friends
are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, corner of Water and Walnut
Dad,
We are so proud to say that we have never, in our
thirty plus years, heard anyone utter a bad word about you, and in the
end, that is something very few people in this world are able to say. In
conversations, when people heard your name, their faces would light up, and
when you walked into a room, smiles would erupt because your personality was
magnetic and irresistible. Who you were in public and in private is your
legacy, and it is permanently engraved in the hearts of your family and
friends. You were selfless and taught us through your actions how to be
good human beings by always being kind to others, very attentive, and
incredibly funny.
Since your spirit was and still is infectious, you
will continue to touch many lives because true kindness is passed from person
to person. Who knows where it ends? But we do know where it began… with
you. We love you and miss you deeply. Thank you for being our hero.