Philip Francis Cossich, Jr.

Phil was larger than life, and he inspired everyone he met. Always an athlete at heart, Phil approached everything in life as if he were walking onto a playing field. He was only satisfied with his performance if he felt he had left it all on the field—giving up was never an option. He fought and loved in the same way: fiercely, completely, and with everything he had.

Born and raised in Louisiana, Phil grew up on the water and spent most of his life immersed in the outdoors he loved so deeply. The bays, marshes, and coast of his home were not just where he lived—they were part of who he was. His lifelong connection to the water shaped his values, his passions, and ultimately his life’s work.

Phil graduated from Tulane University, earning both his undergraduate and law degrees, and went on to become an extraordinarily successful national trial attorney. An incredible storyteller, competitor, and advocate, he devoted his professional life to championing the rights of the powerless and the wronged. He believed deeply in the cases he brought and in the importance of his work, viewing the law as a way to protect and restore the people, communities, and environments he loved so much. He represented clients during the most vulnerable and difficult moments of their lives, and each client became a friend for life. In a contentious profession, Phil was respected by both sides of the aisle and by the judiciary alike.

Phil was one of the attorneys responsible for two of the largest national environmental settlements in history: the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and the PFAS drinking water settlements. Over the course of his career, he successfully represented thousands of individuals, counties, parishes, states, and businesses. In the final year of his life, he helped try a case on behalf of Plaquemines Parish that resulted in the largest jury verdict in the state. He was especially proud that all proceeds from that case will go directly toward coastal restoration in his beloved home parish. In his final months, Phil reflected often on how many people he had helped, taking great pride and comfort in knowing that through his hard work, he was leaving the world a better place.

Even more than his professional accomplishments, Phil was most proud of his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Deena, and they shared 50 years together, including 46 years of marriage. They were inseparable and loved traveling the world side by side. Phil’s favorite days were spent on his boat with Deena, surrounded by his children and grandchildren. One of his final wishes was to renew their wedding vows, which they did surrounded by their family—a beautiful moment that reflected a love story truly meant for the ages.

Phil cherished time with his children, coaching them, teaching them to fish, and instilling in them a deep love for the water and the outdoors. He never stopped being their father—always offering advice, encouragement, and challenges to be better, even into their adult years. He was immensely proud of their accomplishments and especially proud of the families they built.

But nothing brought Phil more joy than his grandchildren. To them, he was lovingly known as “the Dude,” a name that perfectly captured his larger-than-life spirit and easy warmth. He adored every moment spent with them—on the water, telling stories, teaching life lessons, or simply being present. He followed their lives closely, celebrated their milestones enthusiastically, and bragged about their achievements to anyone who would listen.

Phil believed deeply in showing up, and he showed up for his grandchildren with the same passion and commitment that defined every part of his life. He wanted them to know where they came from, to love the outdoors as he did, and to understand the importance of standing up for what is right. His stories, laughter, guidance, and fierce love will always stay with them.

Phil lived fully, loved deeply, and gave tirelessly of himself to his family, his clients, and his community. His legacy is one of strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment to protecting what he loved and doing what was right. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

He was a devoted and proud father to Christina Cossich (Michael), Philip Cossich III (Sarah), Melissa Myers (Will), and Tiffany Sands (Sam), and a deeply loved grandfather—affectionately known as “ the Dude”—to Michael “Mickey” deYoung, Jr., Alexander “Alex” deYoung, Mary “Dory” Cossich, William Myers, Jr., Philip “Ford” Cossich IV, Katherine “Kate” Myers, and Eleanor “Ella” Sands.

He is also survived by his beloved mother, Miriam Mae Cossich; his sister, Joy Lobrano; and his brother, Dimy Cossich. He was preceded in death by his father, Philip Francis Cossich, Sr.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Jonathan Mizrahi for his exceptional care and support.

Family and friends will gather for visitation at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Boulevard, New Orleans, on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 11 am. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 2 pm. The interment will be private.