Phillip James Marsella

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Phillip James Marsella, 59, of Port St. Lucie, on Jan 15, 2025. Phillip was born on December 17, 1965 to Felix and Louise (Holleran) Marsella, in Bronx, NY. He attended Longwood HS in Middle Island, NY and graduated Class of 1984 from Roy C Ketcham High School in Wappinger Falls, NY.

Phillip grew up in Coram, NY, where he spent his childhood and adolescence. Some of his greatest memories growing up were being a part of the Kensington Gate community in Coram, where he would play from sunrise to sundown enjoying sports in the streets with his brother, sisters, and friends. He loved going to SmithPoint Beach to go swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, clamming in the bay, and fishing on the Long Island Sound.

Philip was an amazing athlete growing up. He loved playing football and baseball and his talents as a ballplayer landed him on the Suffolk County PAL team where he had an opportunity to play in the original Shea Stadium as a teen, a childhood memory he held very dear. A childhood friend recently shared, “Phil was a great athlete, always ready for a game of baseball or football. He had quick feet that made him unstoppable at times. I tried my best to mimic his effective running style so I could be as good a running back as he was.” Sports was an integral part of his growing up. Phillip also played the trumpet.

Phillip enjoyed going to the beach and fishing. More recently he took interest in coin collecting with his brother. He lived life to the fullest and especially loved spending time with Heather, his children, his friends and extended family, and his beloved Greyhound dogs.

Phillip had a few professions in his life. After moving to Wappinger Falls, NY with his family as a young adult, he played an integral role in running the family business, Van Wyck Deli, in Fishkill Plains, NY. After moving to Palm City, Florida in his adult years, he started a pest control business and later was the founder of Marsella Racing/ Hauling in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

Phillip is best known for his work ethic, a work ethic truly unmatchable. Always providing for his family, he never wanted them to go without. He has been described as the “hardest working man I know”. He had very strong values and was well liked by everyone. Phillip was notoriously frugal with himself and graciously generous with others. He always made time to help, no questions asked, never wanting anything in return.

Phillip is survived by Heather (Grimshaw) Marsella of Port St. Lucie, Fl, daughter of George and the late Millie Grimshaw; his son, Michael Marsella and wife Kayla, son, Joseph Marsella, and daughter, Gabriella Marsella; mother, Louise Marsella; sister, Deanna Marsella-Bohlinger; brother, Raymond (Suzanne) Marsella; sister, Lisa (Brian) Joyce; and he is survived by several loving nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. Preceded in joining the Lord: his daughter Toni Marie Marsella, and his father, Felix Marsella.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am Sunday, February 9, at Aycock at Tradition, Port St. Lucie, Florida. A Celebration of Life will also be held in his family’s hometown in NY at a later date.

Although Phillip is gone, he will live in our hearts forever.