Philip Gordon Wight
Philip Gordon Wight
Philip Gordon Wight, beloved father, veteran, and community member, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2024, at the age of 101. Born on April 1, 1923, in Westfield, New Jersey, to Thomas Wight and Nellie (Mathison) Wight Calame, Phil lived a remarkable life filled with love, dedication, and service.
After growing up in Westfield, NJ, Phil proudly served his country during World War II as a B-17 radio gunner in the 8th Army Air Corps. His fondest memory was taking part in Operation Chowhound, a humanitarian aid mission that dropped food supplies over German-occupied areas of the Netherlands.
Phil pursued his education on the GI Bill at Delhi University in Delhi, NY. He then settled in Williamsport, PA, where he and his wife welcomed four children. In 1972, Phil moved his family to Bemus Point, New York, where he found a close-knit community and continued to live for the rest of his life.
Phil was a passionate sports fan, loyal to the Washington Redskins/Commanders and the Minnesota Twins. He was also a lover of animals and Chautauqua Lake.
Philip is survived by his wife of 74 years, Marilyn (Welch) Wight, three daughters, Deborah Keane (Timothy), Patrice Conlon (Jerome), Nancy Wight, and a son, Thomas Wight. He had nine grandchildren: Griffin, Chelsea Keane, Lauren (Keane) Williams, Tara (Conlon) Williams, Katharine Conlon-Gutshall, Quinn Conlon, Madeline Wight, Reid Wight, and seven great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by three brothers Herbert, Douglas, and Donald Wight, a sister Ruth (Wight) Dietz, and a grandson, Matthew Conlon.
Phil will be remembered for his deep love for his family, his stories of service, and his dedication to his neighborhood.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Phil’s honor may be made to the Chautauqua County Humane Society, Heritage Green Skilled Nursing, or Bemus Point Methodist Church to continue his legacy of care and compassion.
Phil’s life, well-lived and full of humor, leaves a lasting imprint on the hearts of the fellow H.A.s who loved him.
Family and friends may visit at Bemus Point Methodist Church on Saturday, November 30th from 10 AM- 11 AM. A memorial service will be held at 11 AM. Burial will be in Bemus Point Cemetery, Bemus Point, N.Y.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Powers, Present & Sixbey Funeral Home, 316 E. 5th Street, Jamestown, NY. To light a candle or to send condolences to Phil’s family, please visit www.presentsixbeyfuneral.com.