Phillip Elliott, veteran, gifted craftsman
Phillip Elliott, 94, passed away peacefully in his sleep Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Delaware Hospice in Milford.
Born and raised in Lewes, Phillip was the son of the late Philip and Annie (Tingle) Elliott. He later made his home in Magnolia, where he lived for most of his life. He was also predeceased by his sister, Jeannette E. Smith (Marshall).
Phil is survived by his devoted wife of 72 years, Leah Millman Elliott, his high school sweetheart and lifelong partner. Together, they built a life rooted in love, hard work, and family. He is also survived by his children, Philip H. Elliott (Kris), Debbie E. Hill (Leslie) and Gail L. Croswell (Barry); his grandchildren, Beth VanVliet (Rob), Christopher Elliott (Misty), John Acosta (Iryna), Ryan Elliott (Lisa), Nicholas Acosta, Matthew Acosta and David Hill; and his great-grandchildren, Emmie and Eli VanVliet, Anthony “A.J.” Acosta, and Mira, Kaia, and Farrah Elliott.
A gifted craftsman, Phil had a natural talent for building and carpentry. He personally built the family’s home in Magnolia, where he and Leah lived for 68 years. He also constructed a home for his parents and was involved in remodeling numerous homes throughout Kent County, acting as a trusted contractor for friends and neighbors.
Phil proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, achieving the rank of staff sergeant before his honorable discharge in 1954. He continued his service as a civilian, becoming the second civil servant hired at Dover Air Force Base after WWII. He had a distinguished 35-year career there as a jet engine mechanic and shop foreman in the 436th Field Maintenance Squadron, retiring in 1986.
Phil had a deep love for the outdoors and was an avid beagle enthusiast. He raised AKC-registered beagles for hunting and field trials and was an active member of Diamond State Beagle Club. He also remained connected to his community through a long-standing (69-year) membership in Dover Masonic Lodge, Union Lodge No. 7.
A proud graduate of Lewes High School Class of 1950, Phil leaves behind a legacy of dedication, craftsmanship, service, and love. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
A viewing and visitation with the family will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, Tuesday, May 27, at Pippin Funeral Home, 119 W. Camden Wyoming Ave., Wyoming. Interment will follow in a private ceremony with family at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Phil’s memory to White’s Chapel Cemetery Inc., 15373 Coastal Hwy., Milton, DE 19968.
