Philip V. Aliotta

For more than 35 years, Philip dedicated his career to teaching Spanish in the South Bronx. He was so much more than a teacher to his students. He was a mentor, a guiding light, and someone who genuinely cared about their futures. He went above and beyond, often helping students apply to schools and offering guidance, encouragement, and support that extended far beyond the classroom. He believed in his students and wanted to see them succeed. The impact he made on their lives will never be forgotten.

For many years, Philip also worked as a waiter at his uncle's restaurant, The Pine Tree, in the Bronx, where he continued to share his warmth and friendly spirit with everyone around him.

Philip had a true passion for sports, especially his beloved New York Yankees. He attended countless games, had the opportunity to meet players, and absolutely loved everything about baseball. He was also a devoted New York Giants fan and would never pass up an opportunity to watch a football game. In fact, he loved all sports and would happily watch just about anything. Whether cheering on his favorite teams or simply enjoying a game, sports brought him so much happiness.

His Catholic faith was an important part of who he was. Even as dementia took away so many things, his faith remained. He would still ask about going to church, a beautiful reminder of how deeply rooted his faith was in his heart.

Above all, Philip's greatest love was his wife, JoAnn. The love and devotion he had for her was something truly special. You rarely see a love like theirs. He adored her, and his commitment to her was evident in everything he did. Their love was an example of what it means to stand by someone through a lifetime.

He was an incredible father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend. Everyone who crossed his path was touched by his kindness. He was loving, generous, supportive, and always there for the people he cared about. His family could always count on him, and he made those around him feel loved and valued.

Philip lived a simple life, but it was a life rich in everything that truly matters. He believed in faith, family, and the importance of being there for one another. Some of his happiest moments were spent gathered around a table, sharing delicious food, laughter, stories, and good times with family and friends.

He believed that a meaningful life is not measured by what you have, but by the love you give, the lives you touch, and the memories you leave behind.

Philip leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, kindness, and faith. He will be remembered for his generous heart, his love of sports, his dedication to his students, his unwavering love for his family, and, most of all, the way he made people feel. He was loved beyond words and will be missed more than words can ever express. His lessons, his laughter, his love, and the memories shared with him will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him forever.

Philip is survived by his beloved wife, JoAnn; his loving children, Christine Aliotta Meuser, and predeceased by her husband, Ellis Meuser; Dina Marie Aliotta Cavazza and her husband, Paul Cavazza; and Vincent Aliotta. He was a cherished grandfather to John Willwerth and his wife, Erica; Danielle Passineau and her husband, Dave; Richard Cavazza and his wife, Sarah; Nicolina Cavazza and her fiance Edward Quinn; Vincent Cavazza and his fiance Jade; Anthony Cavazza and his wife, Eliana; Breanna Cavazza; Deanna Cavazza; Philip Aliotta and Gabriella Aliotta . He was also the proud great-grandfather of RJ, Abigail, Ariana, Whitney, Noah, Ronan, Olivia, Cecilia, Lorenzo, and Greyson, and was predeceased by his great-granddaughter, Valentina.

He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Kim DePra, Robert Ferraioli, Jr., and Michael Ferraioli, and his brother-in-law, Robert Ferraioli, Sr.

Philip was predeceased by his beloved sister, Marylou Ferraioli, as well as his parents and grandparents.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 2-4pm & 6-8pm at the David T. Ferguson Funeral Home, 20 North Street, Washingtonville, NY 10992. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Monday, November 16, 2026, at St. Mary’s Church in Washingtonville, NY. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery also in Washingtonville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Philip's name may be made to Maria Fareri Children's Hospital in loving memory of his beloved great-granddaughter, Valentina Quinn. Donations may be made online at wmchealthgiving.org.