Philip G. Babits

Philip George Babits, 82, passed peacefully on Monday evening, January 23, 2023 at the Regal Care Assisted Living Center, 95 Laurel Street, following a period of declining health. He was born on September 4, 1940 in Montague, MA, to Mable Grace (Adams) and George Oscar Babits.

Phil was educated in Greenfield Public Schools and was a graduate of GHS in the Class of 1958.  Following his graduation, he worked for the former Nora’s Bakery, Franklin Medical Center, Millers Falls Tool Company. Later, he worked for the Grand Union in Brattleboro, VT and Stop & Shop, Greenfield as a Produce Clerk prior to his retirement. 

Phil served in the Massachusetts Army National Guard with Company B in Greenfield for serveral years.  He was a former Boy Scout Master, of Troop 1 of Greenfield, with the Great Trails Council of Western Massachusetts.  He was active in DeMolay for many years. Phil was an accomplished organist, having provided his services to the former St. Andrew’s Espiscopal Church in Turners Falls. He volunteerd his time and talent for the Salvation Army Citadel in Greenfield, MA for many years and was a member of the Episcopal Church of St. James & Andrew of Greenfield, MA.  Phil enjoyed watching television and playing cards with family and friends.  Phil and Eva often enjoyed bus trips to various destinations.

He married the former Eva Marie Togneri on June 29, 1968 and they have celebrated nearly 55 years of marriage together. They made their home at 76 Smith Street in Greenfield until moving to the nursing home due to declining health, where they shared a suite together. Survivors include Phil’s loving and devoted wife Eva, along with Phil’s two siblings: Carol Graves of Turners Falls, and Donald Babits (Patricia) of Greenfield. In addition, he leaves several nieces, nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews, as well as his cousins-in-law Gary and Norman Therien of Greenfield.  Phil was predeceased by his parents, as well as his brother Richard, and by his brother-in-law John Graves.

Funeral services in celebration of Phil’s life, will be observed on Wednesday, February 1, 2023 from the Episcopal Church of St. James and Andrew, 8 Church Street, Greenfield, MA at 11:00AM, to be officiated by Rev. Heather Blais, Rector. Rites of committal and burial will follow in Green River Cemetery. Visiting hours are omitted.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Phil’s memory are suggested, to the Episcopal Church of St. James and Andrew, 8 Church Street, Greenfield, MA 01301. To share personal remembrances, please visit Phil’s Tribute Wall which may be found at www.mccarthyfuneralhomes.com

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