A proud member of the United States Air Force, Phillip enlisted in 1963 and completed his basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. He then attended Chanute Air Force Base in Illinois for specialized schooling as an aircraft maintenance specialist, graduating as a jet engine mechanic in 1968. During his distinguished 20+ year military career, he served at various bases, including Barksdale Air Force Base in Shreveport, New Mexico, the Philippines, and spent over a decade in Saudi Arabia, where he worked as an instructor, sharing his expertise on F-15 and B-52 jet engines with the Saudi Arabian military. After retiring as a Master Sergeant, Phillip continued his career with McDonnell Douglas and Boeing.
Phillip’s greatest joy in life was being a grandfather. Affectionately known as “Gramps,” he reveled in his role as the loving patriarch of his family. Though he never had children of his own, he embraced his stepchildren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with all the love in his heart. His pride and joy were his great-grandchildren, with whom he shared an especially deep bond. Phillip loved nothing more than spending time with them—whether it was playing, sharing stories, or simply watching them grow. He was their biggest cheerleader, always ready with a smile and a listening ear. His love for his great-grandchildren was boundless, and they brought him immense happiness and fulfillment in his later years. His legacy of kindness, wisdom, and devotion will live on through them.
An avid train lover, Phillip spent countless hours tending to his cherished model train collection, which was a testament to his meticulous nature and passion for precision. He also found peace in birdwatching, spending many quiet moments in his sunroom, where he marveled at the beauty of the birds and nature. His love for flowers was another way he connected with the world, tending to his garden with care and enjoying the vibrant colors in his yard.
Phillip met and married Kathleen “Kathy Jo” Tucker in 1972, who preceded him in death in 1999. In 2010, he married Judith Sewell Wilson, gaining a loving family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored. Phillip spent his retirement years in happiness, cherishing his time with his family and living a fulfilling life as “Gramps,” a role he treasured beyond measure.
He is survived by his wife Judith DelVecchio, his sister Sharon DelVecchio, his nephews Michael Cottingham (Tammy), and James Cottingham (Tammy). Niece Sheri Burnett (Waymon). Great nieces Karissa Witherspoon (Ryan), Natalie Harrison (Hunter), Gracie Burnett, Stephanie Cottingham. Great nephew’s, Phillip Cottingham and Jeffery Cottingham (Tabitha). He is also survived by his step-children Sherri Waldroup (Glenn), Terri Warren (Donnie), Wendy Mills (Michael), and Dave Bumgardner (Tallie). Step grandchild Kayla McCoy (Cody) and great grandchildren: Rylee, Lilliann, Sadie, and Maddox.
Phillip was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip John DelVecchio Sr. (Jennie Marie LaTorre DelVecchio), his sister Catherine Jean DelVecchio Cottingham, his brother-in-law Jerry David Cottingham, his former wife Kathleen Jo Tucker DelVecchio, and his mother-in-law Margie Naomi Tucker.
A visitation will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport, Louisiana, followed by a celebration of life service at 11:00 AM. A graveside service will be held at 12:00 PM at Centuries Memorial Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport, Louisiana.
Serving as pallbearers are Cody McCoy, Glenn Waldroup, Wayman Burnett, Philip Cottingham, Jeff Cottingham, Michael Pettit, Mike Cottingham, Rylee McCoy, and Donnie Warren.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in Phillip’s memory be made to the American Heart Association, 745 Olive St # 111, Shreveport, Louisiana 71104, or online at www.heart.org.
Phillip will be deeply missed by his family and friends. May he forever be in the hearts of his grandchildren, who will carry forward his love, wisdom, and legacy.
