Phil was my lifelong friend and I loved him dearly.  We all had friends when we were kids, but we tend to lose touch as we get older. I was blessed….I stayed close to Phil for 66 years and the ways in which helped me and influenced my life in are too many to list. I met Phil on the bus to kindergarten when we were 5 years old. He had big thick glasses and a runny nose and he handed me a note with his phone number that his Mom (Wilma) had written out. Somehow the image of this is burned into my memory. From there we proceeded to build our friendship walking “cross lots” between our houses in the country. Even then, he was always laughing and being corny and I loved it.
Phil was a world class conversationalist and would talk about anything and everything for hours at a time. He deeply cared about others and was the most encouraging man I ever knew. He was expert at spotting and helping to develop potential in people.  To be around him meant guaranteed smiles, laughter & nostalgia. His immense pride, love, and deep respect for his wonderful family were part of every conversation I had with Phil. He could recall decades old details about people and events from life (and particularly high school) that amazed me. He could tell you in detail about relationships between guys and girls from school days and what became of them.  Phil was also a world class ham….loud, thundering voice & antics, which produced laughs & smiles from anybody near him.
 Phil and his Dad made a decent little league pitcher out of me.
We learned to drive "field cars” together in his gravel pit.
Phil introduced me to my wife of 49 years and encouraged our relationship. He was in my wedding 10 yrs. later. We completed our MBA's at UB together. I worked with Phil for 3 years at a hospital in Schenectady and our times together were challenging & rich. Our last chapter is Florida where my wife and I frequently got together with Phil & his lovely wife Colleen. Lifelong friend indeed. What a wonderful man.

Opal and I send sincere condolences on the loss of our dear friend Phil…as he was a major part of our “neighborhood family tribe!”  He brought fun and laughter to everyone around him as he was usually the star of our party!
He often comforted us with his  delicious cooked meals ….always made with heart and shared with joy!
Phil showed an immense forever love for his wife Coleen and children as they were clearly the center of his world.  
We grieve with you missing his gentle presence, kindness and the goodness he left behind ….knowing his spirit lives on forever with us here in the “hood”!.
Rest peacefully, dear friend. ❤️
Linda Hembree
Opal Strasser

Colleen my deepest condolences for your loss my prayers are with you and your family

Still processing Phil's sudden passing and how this must be for you. I want to share this memento of a lifelong and loyal friendship.
The bat was Phil's. He gave it me 45 yrs ago, an Al Kaline Louisville Slugger. This bat's just one of the many things Phil and the Covells shared with the Speranzas. My pop kept it on his boat for yrs. for feisty fish. I claimed it back and have kept it as part of my 'security system" since. 
The Covell family taught me how to be a "good neighbor" generous, fun, hardworking, and a good sport. Plus, Phil taught me to drive that old John Deere tractor - once I learned to crank start it.  I used to watch him play basketball and drive “field cars” with his buddies when he was a teenager. And what cars he had…
Once Joe and Lauren started playing sports, I wasn’t surprised Phil was so enthusiastic as a “hockey dad”. You all experienced his passion for sports which knew no limits. 
Colleen, I’m so thankful my mom and I were able to have dinner back in June.  We got filled in on your lives and families and was a joy to be together.
I too lost my dad suddenly and know the shock and loss are palpable. My dearest condolences as you each find your way through your grief. You always have a home in Western NY should you find a craving for Niagara County peaches or apples, ‘Flip’s sauce, or chicken wings.
Sincerely,
Carla Speranza
zzette_carla@yahoo.com

I’m very sorry to hear of Phil’s passing. I’ll always remember his sense of humor and friendship. May God Bless Phil and may he Rest In Peace!

A beautiful tribute for Phil!Sending love, hugs and prayers for Colleen and his family!💕💕🙏🙏

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

James Phillip Covell

12 décembre 1953 – 6 novembre 2025

Kraeer-Fairchild Funeral Home & Cremation Center

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