Philip John Grayson

Phil was born December 9,1947, in Delaware county, Pennsylvania to Elizabeth and Jess R. Grayson. He attended Saint James High, but his real education began in 1968 as a member of the U.S. Army, 18th Engineer Brigade during the Tet Offensive in Vietnam. Sergeant Grayson then fought in the battle for Hamburger Hill, a hard fought 10 days in which he and his brothers were showered with gunfire, as well as Agent Orange. He would be a lifelong advocate for those veterans suffering from the aftereffects of both.

Phil was a master auto body man and a much sought-after painter, owning several body shops in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. He didn't believe in excuses and as such, never missed a day of work. When his health permitted, and his work was done, he loved to play golf and some of his best times were at the yearly golf retreats in Myrtle Beach.

In 1991, Sylvia caught his eye and changed the course of his life forever. They were married in 1992, and she, along with his best friend and biggest headache, daughter Kelly, were by his side when he took his last breath.

Philip was many things, but above all, he was a steadfast and righteous brother, and loved his true club brothers. He was the epitome of old school, and resisted driving a car, "Live to Ride, Ride to Live" no matter the weather or occasion. "I don't have no reverse" he loved to say.....You could count on him to mean what he said and say what he meant.

Philip was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Vincent Jay, Richard, Michael, Brother In Law, Bob Westerberg, nephews Michael B. Westerberg and Patrick Whelan, and his faithful K-9 companion,8 Ball.

Left to cherish the awesome memories of a full life well lived, is the love of his life, Sylvia "Silver" Grayson, who put up with his antics and attitude for 28 years, through sickness and health, just as they promised, daughter Kelly Grayson, his best friend till the end, daughter Amanda Kokonos (Spero)-look into her eyes and you will see Philip staring back, a stepdaughter, whom he thought the world of, Michelle Malloy, and Keith and Marcy Grayson, and their children, respectively. Brothers Jack (Debbie) Grayson, William "Billy" Grayson, sisters Liz Westerberg ,Mary Jane (TA) Whelan, Grandchildren, Natalie, who captured her Grandfathers heart and drove him crazy! CJ, John, and Pierce, who filled him with pride as he watched them grow into fine hardworking young men, Brandon, Alyssa and Reagan, who spent endless hours visiting with their Grandfather laughing, teasing and playing tricks on. Nieces Chrissy Cangemi and husband Mike, Caroline Jackson and husband, Brian, Hilary Grayson and husband Dimitri, Jarren Harrell and husband Van, Adrian Ramsey and husband Joe. Kathy Gray and husband Rob. He was especially close to and adored his niece Stacey Westerberg. Nephews John Grayson and wife Judy, Jon Michael Grayson, Bobby Westerberg, Jason Grayson and wife Jen, Jess "LJ" Grayson with whom Phil shared a special and unbreakable bond.

Phil's friend, who he truly thought of as his own son, Deon Garner, and his son, Joshua, were so important to him, he loved to attend Joshua's games and when he and Deon were together, you would hear laughter for hours, and we will feel the love for eternity, Thank You, D.

Roy Reeps was a lifelong friend to Phil and such a comfort for our family, a more genuine friend you could not find, Thank You.

The Grayson family would like to acknowledge Spencer Long for his loyalty and friendship, and help to his appointments and around the house, and allowing us to see him laugh anytime you were around. We treasure those moments, Thank You, Spence.

Lastly, but worth repeating, is the importance of veterans, their causes, their pain, their stories and memories were front and center for my Dad. He quietly, humbly, and mostly anonymously counseled, donated, volunteered, and LISTENED to his brothers who have sacrificed so much for us. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate your time or your money to a veteran's organization of your choice, buy a vet a meal, or simply LOOK A VETERAN IN THE EYE and thank them for their service.

Till Valhalla

A celebration of Philips life will be held Saturday, July 10,2021, from 4-8 pm at The Winston Salem Elks Lodge,5285 Griffith Road, Winston Salem N.C. 27103