Philip James Geoghegan, Jr. age 80, of Lincoln University, Pennsylvania, passed away on July 5, 2023, at his home. He was the beloved spouse of Patricia McAndrew Geoghegan, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage. Born in Waterbury, CT, he was the son of the late Philip Geoghegan, Sr. and the late Frances Koskuba Geoghegan.
After completing his PhD in organic chemistry from Purdue University, Phil spent 33 years with DuPont where he led chemical research teams at multiple locations including groups charged with procurement of intellectual property from Europe and Asia. His colleagues remarked that he was an easygoing, friendly guy who took his work seriously. Creative, compassionate, and caring were the characteristics that followed him wherever he worked. Phil and Pat will always be grateful for their journey with DuPont from Waynesboro, VA to Lincoln University, PA and all the in-betweens around the US and the world.
During his retirement, Phil was the Franklin Township Open Space Committee's key to securing over 9 million dollars in grant funding to preserve more than 400 acres. Through his commitment to open space, he helped to preserve many of Franklin’s farms with the purchase of Banffshire, Franklin, White Clay Crescent, Goodwin and Peacedale Preserves. He always had a focus on trails that the community could use to enjoy our open spaces. To honor his work and commitment, the two-mile trail on the Ford Farm in Kemblesville was dedicated to him.
Phil was a member of St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Mother Catholic Church in Avondale. He was a faithful church goer and had a great fondness for Our Lady and her Rosary.
In his spare time and retirement, Phil enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid reader and embraced a lifetime of education. From fishing to camping, gardening to lawn maintenance, and whenever possible, the suitcases were packed and the travels began. He and Pat didn’t hesitate to go on road trips, cruises, international tours, or spur of the moment getaways.
Phil will be remembered most for his loving and lasting marriage with Pat. They met during their first jobs at the A&P grocery store and they immediately became friends. Their friendship grew into a love that led to a 60-year marriage. They loved and supported each other while pursuing education and careers, raising children, pursuing hobbies, and everything in between. Some 64 years later and “Happy” is the way to describe them.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son Michael (Robin) Geoghegan of Jupiter, FL; Sean (Lis) Geoghegan of Bronx, NY; Kyle (Linda) Geoghegan of Manhattan Beach, CA; daughter Leanne Geoghegan of Newark, DE; and daughter-in-law Janet (Bill) Mangler of Newark, DE. He will also be missed by his seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and his sister Anne Geoghegan of Largo, FL. In addition to his parents, Phil was predeceased by his son, P. James Geoghegan III.
Our family is forever grateful to the Visiting Angels and the Brandywine River Valley Hospice for extending Phil peace and dignity. Thank you for making a difference.
You are invited to visit with Philip’s family and friends from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on July 28, 2023 at St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Mother Catholic Church, 8910 Gap Newport Pike, Avondale, PA 19311. Mass will follow at 11:00 am. Interment will be held privately.
Arrangements are by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100).