Our beloved friend, Philip Andrew McElhinney, left this world on July 20, 2024, after a courageous and brave battle with cancer. Phil was just 55 years old but his legacy of love, generosity, and quiet strength will remain with us forever. Upon his passing, one of our brothers noted, "Phil was a great man with impeccable character. A rare one-of-a-kind" and we couldn't agree more. Phil was a man who lived quietly but impacted so many in profound ways. Phil was a cherished husband, father, brother, and friend, who leaves behind his wife Paula and their three beautiful children: Willa (13), Mae (10), and Dodge (6).

Phil’s life was defined by generosity, kindness, and integrity. He approached everything with a steady hand and a heart full of love, from his work as a real estate broker to his passions for vintage machinery, the great outdoors, and the simple joys of being with his family and helping to build a community. Phil’s quiet leadership and warmth touched everyone around him. He was also someone who could talk to anyone—a man of wisdom beyond his years, with a love of history, good food, and great conversation. But more than anything, he was devoted to his family. Phil built a life full of love with Paula, and he was always present for his children—coaching, guiding, and encouraging them at every step.

We, his college friends, are raising funds to help his family during this incredibly difficult time. Phil’s illness has left behind significant medical expenses, but all the funds raised here will go toward establishing a college fund for his three children. Willa, Mae, and Dodge are the lights of Phil’s life, and helping secure their educational future would be a way to honor him in a lasting and meaningful way.

While nothing can fill the void Phil leaves behind, we hope this campaign will help ease the financial burden on his family and allow them to focus on healing. If you had the privilege of knowing Phil, you know how much he gave to those around him. He was a rock to many and had a heart that could hold the world. Now it’s our turn to give back to him and his family.

Even if you did not know Phil, we hope you will still consider giving, no matter the amount, knowing that your generosity supports a family whose values are grounded in hard work, kindness, faith in God, and building community—values that defined Phil throughout his life.

Thank you again for considering making a donation--your support means the world to those of us who loved Phil.

Phil’s College Brothers