MEMBER SIGN IN
Not a member? Become one today!
         iBerkshires     Berkshire Chamber     Berkshire Community College     City of Pittsfield    
Search
Search all obituaries on iBerkshires.com:
Printer Friendly Version
   Send to a friend
Philip P. White, 76

December 30, 2021

PITTSFIELD, Mass. —  Mr. Philip P. White, age 76, a resident of Kingston, NY since 2014 and formerly of Pittsfield, MA died unexpectedly in an automobile accident on Thursday, December 30, 2021.  





Born in Pittsfield on June 22, 1945, Philip was the son of the late Roderick Ploss White and Mary (Jackson) Burbank. He was a graduate of Pittsfield High School and then went on to Berkshire Community College. He joined the US Air Force in 1964. He was honorably discharged in 1968 with the rank Sargent while stationed in Hawaii.  He eventually earned his Masters Degree from UMass and began his career in Human Services. 





He started at Berkshire Life in 1974 and worked there until beginning at BCARC in 1982. Phil worked for BCARC for 4 years before eventually beginning his career with the Department of Mental Health for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Phil retired in 2009 after 21 years of service with the Commonwealth. 





A man that devoted his entire life to helping others, he volunteered for countless organizations over the years. Most notably, he was proud to have served as the President of Toastmasters International. He tutored for many years for ELA and Special ED Students and freely shared his extensive knowledge of so many things.  



He was a true Humanitarian. This became even more evident to those around him once COVID became such an dark spot in our Nation's history. When most people began shutting down, Phil found new ways to help others. He started volunteering as a Crisis Response Counselor for a Suicide Prevention Hotline. He knew that people would need extra companionship, help and even just a friend to talk to. 



Phil was always on the go. Whether he was playing pickle ball, roller blading or going out to play cards and boardgames with friends, he never stopped moving. He was an avid New England sports fan and emulated Boston Strong in all ways. 



Above all, he was an animal lover. He rescued countless animals over the years, most recently giving a home to his beloved bird named Molly. He also started volunteering at the Kingston ASPCA Shelter shortly after moving to the area where he would love walking the dogs and help in their new home placement. 



Philip is survived by his daughters, who he was such a true balance of, Regina White and Jennifer Burke, his son-in-law Dennis Burke, and his grandchildren, Christopher Ellsworth, Josh Burke, Dylan Blake, Madison Burke and Laynie Burke. He also leaves his former wife of 27 years, Martha Castillo and her partner Larry Wheelock, his sister Trisha Choquette, his brother Michael White, and a great number of friends and colleagues who will always remember Phil for his friendship and quick wit. 



In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his brother Roderick White. 



SERVICES: In order to keep everyone safe, a private graveside service will be held at St. Joseph's Cemetery in Pittsfield. The family invites anyone who would like to say their goodbyes to Phil to visit his burial plot at the cemetery in section St. Anne de Beaupre in their own time. The family will hold a true celebration of Philip's life when it is safer to gather.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made payable to "Hospice Care in the Berkshires" and mailed to the Devanny-Condron Funeral Home. 




Recollections & Sympathy For the Family
Post Comment
Marty, Gina, Jen, I’m deeply sorry to learn of Phil’s untimely death. Lifelong friends since high school-together we joined the military, graduated college and remained friends until the end. Phil really made a difference in the lives of so many people as he enjoyed helping others. I know he will be remembered fondly for his kind and compassionate deeds. He was always willing to lend a helping hand at a moments notice. Phil was one-of-a kind type of person known for his sense of humor, and had the ability to lighten ones mood and lift their spirits in the darkest moments with laughter. No one could do this better than Phil, and I feel lucky to have known him and I will always treasure the fun memories I have of him. Rest In Peace good buddy, Your friend always,
Jack Mazzeo,
Port Richie, Florida
from: Jack mazzeoon: 02-01-2022

Once again I am so sorry at the loss of Phil as Charlie stated we all gathered at Phil's house, Louie Sibbio, Charlie Caparella, Rick Salavadore. and myself Mike White was sleeping in late as usual and they both Phil and Mike would turn loose Topper their Doberman Pincer loose on me and I would finish my walk to school with schreded clothing. Phil's Dad Rod was always very kind to us. I lived on West Housatonic St just below the South St News in a Brick Bldg 36 West Housatonic St my Step Father Jose Sibbio purchased for us. I can remember walking to School in the Winter time with Frozen Hair seeing Phil & tOPPER
from: Paul Croteauon: 01-30-2022

I am so sorry to learn of Phil's passing. We were life long friends for many years since age 12 on, He was a man of great humor and always found the beat in life. Not long ago last year called me to share our great friend Rick Salvadore passing which brought me to tears. I know Phil would have lived a longer life gut for the Auto Accident. God Bless you my fiend and bless all your friends and Family
from: PAUL CROTEAUon: 01-30-2022

I’m shocked and saddened to hear that Phil passed away. We met many years ago while I was working at BCARC. We played softball together in a co ed human service league. Phil was truly compassionate towards the consumers he served. I would like to give my condolences to his family.
from: John DiTomassoon: 01-18-2022

Sad! May you Rest In Peace.
from: Dave D.on: 01-11-2022

Phil was a very close friend of mine and surely is going to be missed. We had a lot of great times together watching and playing sports and enjoying a nice dinner and a good game of cards at his house. My deepest condolences to Phil's Family. Rest in peace. Your friend, John Szymanski
from: John Szymanskion: 01-10-2022

It was my pleasure to have known and worked with Phil over the years. He definitely was a jokester and loved to make people laugh and smile. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family.
from: Marilyn Barnabyon: 01-10-2022

So very very sorry for the loss of Phil. We lived next door on Deming street 1962. Phil wrote a great story about my dad Big Al the Cat killer. So much fun. Always knew me when we ran into each other as adults. Always made you feel special. Rest In Peace Phil, the world will truly miss you.
from: Judith Hamling Chenailon: 01-10-2022

I worked with Phil at DDS [DMR] for many years. Phil was much fun to be around, he was kind, and always made us laugh. He cared for the clients to whom he provided services. My condolences to the family. May the Light of Christ shine upon all those who are left behind, and grant you peace, and comfort. Best!
from: Paulette F.on: 01-10-2022

So sorry to hear this and he will be missed. We had many good times at the house on Demming street and there were 5 of us that were very close. The funniest thing he ever did (among many) was to put Crisco in his hair to slick it back. We listened to many Red Sox games on the radio as your dad was a serious fan.
I will keep him in my thoughts and prayers.
from: Charles lee Caparellaon: 01-08-2022

My condolences to the family. May the fond and loving memories be a comfort and always be with you. Rest in peace my friend.
from: John A. Bernardoon: 01-08-2022

My condolences to the family. May the fond and loving memories be a comfort and always be with you. Rest in peace my friend.
from: John A. Bernardoon: 01-08-2022

Our deepest condolences to the family for the loss of a great person.
May he Rest In Peace
from: Michael and Julie Warrington on: 01-08-2022

Rest in peace old friend. Thank you for the many laughs over the years, you were truly one of a kind. Hey buddy, you will be missed.
from: Don: 01-07-2022

Pittsfield.com is owned and operated by: Boxcar Media 106 Main Sreet, P.O. Box 1787 North Adams, MA 01247 -- T. 413-663-3384
© 2008 Boxcar Media LLC - All rights reserved