Philip Mortimer Philander

Philip Mortimer Philander, aka Phil and “Jughead” was born on May 7, 1943 in the village of Buxton, East Coast Demerara, Guyana to Philip “Fitzroy/Daddy Fitz” Philander and Mildred “Mabel/May” Philander (nee Jervis). He was the fifth of seven children (David/Rugam, Myrna, Olive, Jabez Jerome, Monica/Mammy, Anthony/Tony) born to his parents.

Philip often spoke about his love for swimming as a boy, often getting in trouble for neglecting chores, to go swimming after school. He later joked that he did not realize that he needed two legs to swim, after entering a pool following his amputation. Philip excelled in school and attended Cambridge Academy and County High School in Guyana. He later became a teacher, and subsequently joined the Guyana Defense Force, as one of first group of soldiers. He later immigrated to the United States, first settling in New York, and later moving to Connecticut, where he lived for many years until moving to Florida in the 1990s.

Marriages

He was married to Esther (Yvonne) Azore Philander (deceased), with whom he had Philip, Michelle and Shonnette (deceased). Phil’s daughter, Alison, who also preceded him in death, was from another relationship. After immigrating to the US, he married Linda Barnhill Philander. Their children are Sherise, Tijuana(Nikki), Ronda and Jason. He married Debbie Philander(deceased), with whom he had Tyrone. He later remarried Linda, with whom he had a lifelong friendship, and would often refer to as his best friend.

Hobbies

Phil loved music, often speaking with pride about his music system, including reel to reel, which predates many people. His love for cars stems from his work as a mechanic. In later years, Phil would take apart his cars, purchase parts and fix his cars. He was often quick to give advice and diagnose mechanical issues. Phil was also very up to date on the news and politics. Phil was also an avid gardener, a skill he acquired as a youth. In later years, he took pride in his fruit trees, often boasting that some of his fruits were the “best on the planet.” He would give away mangoes to his neighbors, but always saved a bounty for his niece, Marilyn, and would often exaggerate the amount that she would eat. Phil was a great storyteller, a trait that is shared by many of the Philanders. He could easily engage in conversations that would last for hours. Phil cherished family and friends, and enjoyed the time he spent with family and friends, either in-person or on the phone.

In 2014, Phil suffered from ill health, which resulted in his leg being amputated. His son Jason and his daughter-in-law, Sonny, moved into his home for a short period to assist with his care. After his discharge, Phil was happy to be reunited with his brother Anthony Philander, whom he had not seen since leaving Guyana. Phil’s amputation did not stop him from living his life. He made close friends with those from his physical therapy. He continued to take care of his garden, drive, fix his car, and enjoy his hobbies.

Philip passed away at his home in Florida on May 17, 2026, ten days after his 83rd birthday. He is survived by his best friend Linda Barnhill Philander, his children Philip, Michelle, Sherise, Nikki, Ronda and Husband Craig, Jason and wife Sunny, Tyrone and wife Natalie; his grandchildren Brittany, Domonick, Kiera, Tyler, Joshua, Brooklyn, Jordan, Taylor, Kimora, Trinity, Talia, and Abiola; Great- grandchildren Tamane, Princess, Tamia, Precious, Jayde, Bliss and Hendrix; sisters, Monica “Mammy” Fraser, and Claire Semple; numerous nieces and nephews; other close family members; cherished friends and neighbors. During his life, Philip Mortimer Philander touched the lives of many people, and will be missed.