Philip L. McPherson

PHILIP LYNNWOOD McPHERSON was born on June 17, 1944 in Washington, DC, to the "much-in-love" and proud parents, Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Glen and Anne Rawlings McPherson, Jr. His birth brought much joy and celebration to the family (3 - brothers, 4 - grandparents, many aunts & uncles, and cousins). In addition, his birth also brought a great deal of happiness to the family's many friends in Pennsylvania and New York.

Phil was a lively and rambunctious child; always inquisitive and willing to try new games and meet new friends. He always had a big and tender heart as a child and it served him well as a loving child of God.

Some years later, the family moved south and called Orange, Texas home. Phil's many talents became obvious as he grew. He became an accomplished trumpet player in the high school marching band and as an aspiring young actor he literally "stole the show" in the drama club's presentation of Arsenic and Old Lace. With his ease and boldness on stage, command of humor, many facial expressions, and foreign accents he has entertained people all of his life. Phil will always be the consummate "showman."

Phil graduated from high school and went directly into the United Stated Marine Corps. This meant that he had joined his three brothers and several friends from Orange, Texas in serving their country. While Marine Corp boot camp is an excruciating period for new recruits, it was determined that Phil had an undiagnosed vision problem. With simple corrective lenses he became an expert marksman. His leadership skills and talents were also groomed in the Marines and he served as Marine Corp Drill Instructor for quite some time. This leadership position in the Corp, holds an especially important role in the life of a Marine. For many recruits it is the powerful and life-changing rite of passage from boy - to man - to Marine.

Phil, who was also known as "Mac," was more than a Marine Corp Drill Instructor, he was a living role-model of the best the Corp had to offer. His approach to service and preparation for war was literally life-saving in combat situations. He achieved the rank of Sergeant and served 3 - tours of duty in Vietnam during 1965 -1968. While he received many injuries in combat during his years of service, the most serious was when he was shot in the chest on his final tour of duty. He earned the Purple Heart, Combat Medal, and other medals for his bravery and sacrifice. He was in combat throughout Vietnam (Chilai, Phubai, and Danang). He served honorably and with distinction for more than 9 years in the United States Marine Corp.

Mac experienced and expressed success throughout his military career and in the world of business. He completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management from Madison State University in 1969. As a lifelong learner and avid reader, he continually built upon his education, training, and extensive life experiences to make his unique mark on all phases of the automobile industry. He was one of those unique souls who could relate to all people from all walks of life. Even though he was always the consummate professional, Mac had a very non-threatening and unassuming approach to success. He would blend good old fashioned "common sense" with industry standards and best practices to encourage individuals to find their own strengths (and weaknesses) in order to build the successes that they themselves could own and rely upon for years to come. Because he was, by his very nature, authentic, genuine, and real he made lasting impressions on many, many people.

Mac's love and passions were held in his relationships with: God, wife, children, grandchildren, brothers, sister, friends, and BOATING. He loved all things f-a-s-t: a 1969 competition red Dodge Charger, custom made Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and motor yachts. Mac was known to say, "There is your family (blood relatives) and then there is your family of choice - mine is my dock family." Deep and abiding friendships were made through the love of the folks at Cedar Point Marina. These friends have stood strong with Mac and Debbie throughout the last several years. A lot of good times and cruises were the hallmark of their shared time together. Additionally, during Mac's illnesses they were always a great support to Mac and Deb. The joy, hope, and love that they brought to their lives will always be treasured.

Mac and Deborah Carol were together twenty years. On more than one occasion, Mac said that he had found in Debbie Carol the same love and passion that his parents exhibited towards one another. In addition, he also described Debbie as the love of his life and God's gift to him. Debbie Carol felt the same way about Mac and that is what made their marriage so beautiful.

Mac is survived by his loving wife Deborah Carol, his children: Michael (and wife Tammy), Matthew (and wife Helen), and Philip, Jr. "Jerry" (and wife Amber), two stepsons: Brian (and wife Heather) and Jason (and fiancée Christi Leahy) Powell whom he loved as his own sons. Eight grandchildren: Ian, Colin, Kadie Rose, Aaron, Cody, Madison, James Christopher "JC", and Justin. Three brothers: Oliver Glen, William Matthew "Bill," and Kerry Patrick "KP." One sister, Marianne. Along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, and nieces.

Mac's life was continually blessed with a large number of truly good friends. His life and spirit will be celebrated, remembered, and missed by many.

The family visitation to greet friends will be from 1:00pm until 2:00pm, Saturday, August 28, 2010, 2:00pm, Hardage-Giddens Edgewood Funeral Home, 729. South Edgewood Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32205, followed by Memorial Service at 2:00pm. Memorial Service will conclude at the Funeral Home.