Today at 3:38 p.m. our beloved Phil earned his angel wings. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family…surrounded by love.
This afternoon as his breathing became more labored, we sensed that he was slipping away. A priest named Father Dean was walking past Phil’s room after visiting another patient, and we quickly grabbed him and asked him to pray with us. Father Dean placed his hand on Phil’s shoulder and we prayed for Phil’s peace. Father Dean said that he literally felt Phil’s body release its energy, like Phil was preparing to cross over.
Within minutes of the priest leaving, Phil’s breathing slowed dramatically. We held him, told him that we loved him, and assured him that his peace is our peace. And then he was gone.
Soon after he took his last breath, a bright red cardinal appeared just outside of his window. Cardinals were always our Grandma Katie’s favorite bird, and we’d all sit with her and watch the cardinals in her yard. Phil spent many hours with Grandma whistling at the cardinals. So today, as we said goodbye to our dear Phil, it was fitting that Grandma Katie would send this cardinal down from heaven to reassure us that she’d be waiting for Phil on the other side. What a beautiful gift.
Although our hearts are broken because we will miss him immeasurably, we are relieved that Phil will be free of pain and able to walk, run, climb…and ultimately fly. Our angel Philly.
We thank all of you – Phil’s loving friends and family – for all of your support and kindness over these past few weeks. Your compassion has sustained us.
Arrangements to celebrate Phil’s life will be forthcoming on this web site. Thank you again.
Peace, Philly. We love you.
Dear Henry Family,
God bless you all and help guide you through this very difficult time. Heaven just got a new angel, indeed… one free of any pain or suffering. And my dad has a new-found friend in heaven… he will take very good care of your Philly until we are all reunited someday.
Love, Paula
By: Paula Gilmour on January 20, 2010
at 10:49 pm
I regret that in all of Phil’s time of illness, I did not visit to see my friend before he passed. I will be looking for news of memorial services.
By: Anonymous on January 21, 2010
at 7:48 am
Dear Henry Family:
My prayers and condolences to you at this time. I so much appreciated your family at the time of your Grandma Katy’s death. Phil has been in my prayers over these last days as word had reached North Broadway.
I smiled at the image of the Cardinal coming to greet you all in the moments after Phil left you…I, too, am certain that Grandma Katie was sending you a message of comfort and assurance.
May the love of your family sustain you during these days, and may God’s comfort and peace be upon you all.
blessings,
Deb Stevens
North Broadway Church
By: Rev. Deborah Stevens on January 20, 2010
at 10:57 pm
God Bless you all! I will pray for the strength for you all through the steps to follow. I KNOW that your son, brother, nephew, friend, etc will watch over you all the time, even in the weak moments. Cherish every memory and moments you had with Phil and the rest of the important people in your life! They are all precious!
By: Regina Merullo on January 20, 2010
at 11:05 pm
There is a shining crystal sea surrounded by streets that are golden.
In that place known as heaven is a man whose life touched so many, including mine. In one brief afternoon, Phil injected hope and inspiration into our conversation, and I was honored to write a column about a man who was neither afraid to show his warts or his worries. But who ultimately showed that faith, hope and love conquer all.
My prayers go to the Henry family. I lost my father in June and understand to a point what you are now experiencing.
Know this, that God works all things to the good. ALL things. Though now we see dimly, then we will see face to face.
Rob Oller
The Columbus Dispatch
By: Rob Oller on January 20, 2010
at 11:16 pm
Dear Henry family,
I have looked at this website a hundred times over the past two weeks. Thank you so much for sharing with all of us your words, feelings and thoughts about Phil and his jouney during this very difficult time. Phil certainly has been an inspiration to me with all his strength and courage. God bless all of you. I will forever miss my friend.
By: cameron mitchell on January 20, 2010
at 11:26 pm
Dear Henry Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so sorry for your loss.
By: Ronni Valentino on January 20, 2010
at 11:56 pm
Dear Henry Family,
Phil is sure proud that he has such a great family that has been by his side through this tough journey. Meghan a true friend and sister to take over his company. Meghan- May God bless you. I am sure Jeff will take good care of Phil the same way he loved Dick and Nancy.
May we all meet again someday in Paradise.
God Bless you….my prayer are with all of you.
Diane Koontz
By: Diane K on January 20, 2010
at 11:56 pm
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. As a family you have shown the greatest treasure of all is love we show those around us. Very humbling. Be in Peace Phil!
By: Andy on January 20, 2010
at 11:57 pm
Peace, Phil. I know it was so hard for such an active guy to be trapped in such a sick body. Blessings to you as you journey forth, free of your earthly shackles. May all your adventures be grand!
By: Paula Gluntz on January 21, 2010
at 12:23 am
I send my deepest sympathy for your loss. I will always remember Phil for his inspiration and courage. May the family receive my prayers of peace.
By: Linda U on January 21, 2010
at 12:31 am
We are deeply saddened by your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family and we hope peace comes to you soon. I know there are not any words that can relieve the pain and sadness but know that we are thinking of you and if we can help in any way, please let us know.
By: Brandy, Veena and boys on January 21, 2010
at 12:47 am
Phil, God Bless You!! Will miss you, and pray for your family. It is hard to say goodbye for now. But I know will be able to say hello again someday. Say hi to Jesus for me. To the Henry Family, my condelences and prayers for peace to you all.
By: John Estep on January 21, 2010
at 1:27 am
Rest.
By: Rus on January 21, 2010
at 2:17 am
Dear Henry Family,
My thoughts are with all of you. Megan, your incredible writing over the past few weeks has shown us how strong each of you is and what a loving family you are. It is my hope that your memories of happier times and the care of your many friends will sustain you through this saddest of times. Suzanne Perry
By: Suzanne Perry on January 21, 2010
at 7:07 am
Megan,
Please extend my sympathy to your entire family. You don’t know me but I am Susan’s friend back here in Central Pennsylvania. Please let her know that I am thinking about her at this time.
Eavan
By: Eavan Mages on January 21, 2010
at 7:40 am
Dear Henry family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers today… Take care Phil… See you on the other side buddy.
By: Terry Jordan on January 21, 2010
at 8:43 am
It is with tears that I write to offer my love to all the Henrys –selfish tears that already feel the void in the world without Phil in it but also tears of comfort as I read the words of all Phil’s friends. These sentiments from strangers to me are so affirming that I can only imagine how uplifting they were to Phil. The quality of one’s life cannot be measured by the length of years but by the depth of impact one has had on others. As this website shows, what a life Phil had!
I have no doubt that Katie sent the cardinal to you as a sign of assurance that Phil is swinging from a cloud and feeling freedom, peace, and bliss. I imagine Phil being greeted by the open arms of Grammy Kay, Pater, Diane, Uncle Lee, Uncle Jim……and even Uncle Dan (which that alone is a sight I would pay to see!)
Love and prayers from Chicago!
–Jill
By: Jill O'Neil Braverman on January 21, 2010
at 8:52 am
Perhaps they are not stars in the sky
But rather openings in Heaven where the
Love of our lost ones pass through
And shine down
To let us know they are happy.
-Indian saying
Phil has always been in our thoughts and prayers.
May he now have peace. God bless.
By: Ken and Missy on January 21, 2010
at 9:40 am
Dear Henry Family,
I am writing to express how sorry I am for your loss. I will miss Phil very much.
Throughout the years, I had the chance to get to know Phil well, from years of hanging out together with him canoeing, hiking, buckeye games, group get togethers and many times just hanging out. I will miss his laugh, and the good times we shared. Phil’s memory is held deep within our hearts. He would want us to remember how happy he was and how fun he was to be around.
They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kayne
Orlando, Florida
By: Kayne Marzetti on January 21, 2010
at 9:50 am
Ditto every word Jilly wrote!
We are all so blessed to have this wonderful family. Phil is smiling down on all of us, wishing to wipe our tears. The Henry clan is so strong and has been sharing some good laughs and smiles when remembering Philly’s antics. Diane and Phil could have some fun in heaven!
We feel your pain and share your tears. Love you
Nan and the Sheedy cousins
By: Nan on January 21, 2010
at 9:52 am
My thoughts and prayers are with all of Phil’s family and friends. Knowing that Phil is no longer in pain and is free is comforting to me, but we all will miss him. What in inspiration he was to everyone! Heaven is a little brighter now with Phil there.
Suzi, Charlie and Robbie Ballinger
By: Suzi Ballinger on January 21, 2010
at 10:45 am
Henry family, we wish you all a sense of peace in this time.
By: Robin, Lisa, Corey, and Caleb on January 21, 2010
at 10:46 am
Bless all of you and know how much you are loved, as Phil certainly knows how much he is loved. A true inspiration to all of us.
hugs,
the Kreber family
By: Pam & Joe on January 21, 2010
at 10:55 am
I think from now on everytime one of us sees a beautiful red cardinal for the rest of our lives, we will think of Phil in heaven sending us a reminder that it’s all good in heaven…and he’s watching us.
Peace to you dear Phil….
By: Kate Leaver on January 21, 2010
at 11:09 am
I asked Phil this morning “How is it?” and he smiled like I’ve not seen him smile in a long time and said, “It’s awesome.”
By: Sue on January 21, 2010
at 11:17 am
Dear Henry Family,
We grieve with you in the loss of your beloved Phil, please know you have been in our thoughts and prayers.
By: The Moulakis Family on January 21, 2010
at 11:26 am
Phil was always such a Gentleman to me. I’ll never forget when he sat on our patio and had coffee with Leigh Ann after her Dad had been diagnosed with cancer. He was so supportive and understanding. My condolence to the Henry family. He was a great guy and my daughter lost ‘her best buddy. Rest in Peace, Phil.
By: Cam Hieronymus on January 21, 2010
at 11:47 am
To the Henry Family, I offer my deepest sympathy and prayers. Phil will be greatly missed. The story of the cardinal is a comforting sign and gift from Heaven.
I was thinking of one of Phil’s favorite quotes this morning: “The mountains are calling and I must go.” – John Muir
I am sure Phil is basking in the Glory of God’s mountains.
Karen
By: Karen Randall Scott on January 21, 2010
at 12:02 pm
To the Henry Family,
Know that my prayers and thoughts are with you all during this difficult time. I will continue to send prayers of strength and peace for all of you.
Mary Merullo Eppert
By: Mary Merullo Eppert on January 21, 2010
at 12:06 pm
Dear Henry Family
My tears join yours in our earthly sorrow, but know that Phil surely has earned his wings. How fitting that Father Dean came just at the right time, he is awesome and once prayed with and for my husband in Hospice last year. You can take great comfort in knowing that Phil had all of the angels waiting for him – the cardinal tells you that. Safe traveling home, Phil, and now Henry family find rest and peace in knowing he is free of his pain and suffering and basking in God’s Love. You will remain in my prayers, and thank you for sharing this unimaginable journey.
Kathy Puccetti
By: Kathy Puccetti on January 21, 2010
at 12:35 pm
My sympathys
to you all….I will miss his smile at my meeting with him in the past. God Bless !
By: Tom Goetz on January 21, 2010
at 12:37 pm
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you today. Sincerely. Martha and Jane
By: Martha Corbett on January 21, 2010
at 12:57 pm
Dear Megan and the Henry Family,
My thoughts and prayers are still with you as they have been through this whole ordeal. I was blessed to be able to run in to Phil at a meeting right before Christmas. He was the same Phil I have always known. Although I had not seen him since his accident, it was like nothing had happened. He was always one of the kindest, Tender, Big hearted man I had ever known. I have been praying for him for a long time, and I was truly blessed to be able to see him before his final journey. May God Bless and Keep you all during this difficult time.
Much Love
Julie Neri
By: Julie Neri on January 21, 2010
at 1:04 pm
Vaya con Dios, my brother. You’ve meant so much, to so many people. Thanks to the you and the Henry family for sharing this journey with us.
MM
By: Mark on January 21, 2010
at 1:10 pm
Dick, Nancy, Megan, and all the family,
We dearly love you and grieve with you. My brother in law passed in Nov., much the same as Phil, surounded by family and love…We cherish those precious hours and take comfort in having been present when our Tom was escorted to heaven. We pray you all feel that same comfort and peace in the days and weeks to come, knowing you are with Phil. God be with you, Love, Jill, Chloe and Letty
By: JIll, Chloe and Letty on January 21, 2010
at 1:36 pm
Dear Henry Family- We are so sorry for your loss and are keeping you in our constant thoughts and prayers. Thanks so much for updating the site for all of us! Phil will be deeply missed! Love, Dave and Gina
By: The Tuttles on January 21, 2010
at 1:48 pm
Megan, thank you for sharing your intimate thoughts about your beloved Phil. I know it has been therapeutic for you but it has offered peace, comfort and the promise of hope to all who read what your heart has poured out.
We are a people who grieve, but because of God’s promise, we are a people who grieve with hope.
May you continue to sharpen your vision in the light of eternity.
In Christ, Jamie Davis
By: Jamie Davis on January 21, 2010
at 1:59 pm
May the love of family and friends hold you close.
May God’s love blanket you with his warm embrace.
Phil’s unique “Red Cardinal Angel Wings”, have all the Angels Smiling- Color and character have arrived in Heaven.
Peace & Love to All
Bonnie & Dean Tocket
By: The Tocket's on January 21, 2010
at 2:04 pm
Megan thanks for all the updates on Phil. What a wonderful website you created.
Dear Henry family,
The O’Harras and Fox family are thinking of you all today and wishing you peace which I’m sure isn’t easy at this time. Just always remember the good times your family has had with Phil and that we are sorry also for your loss.
XXXXOOOXX
By: Anne Fox on January 21, 2010
at 2:14 pm
Nancy , Dick ,Steven , Dave , Sue , Megan I am so sorry for your loss Phil was a remarkable man and I will take from this a deeper respect for life , a new found courage that he awoke in me , and a new love for those you touch in your life so that when you leave its not the material things you leave behind but the love of your fellow man and the lives you touched and Phil did just that , I see Phil today as an eagle with his wings spread open wide on a mountain top with a blue sky behind him taking a long deep breath as he sours into the blue skys , my love and peace to you all thanks Megan for your updates they helped us all keep up on Phils progress , we will miss them as we will him .
By: Donna Waller on January 21, 2010
at 2:50 pm
Dear Henry Family,
My deepest sympathy in the loss of your loved one. He indeed has earned those angel wings and can fly like the cardinal that you saw at his window. Cherish your memories of Phil.
Praying that God will be with you all and give strength and peace.
Tammy
By: Tammy Lewis on January 21, 2010
at 2:59 pm
Dear Megan, Thank you for allowing us to walk with you and your family these last few weeks. Your writings have meant so much to Brian and me as we checked the website every day. I know there are mixed feelings – feelings of relief that Phil is no longer in pain and climbing clouds in heaven, feelings of sadness that he is gone and also feelings of loss that this intense period of time is over. As you move through your grief, don’t be afraid to experience all of these feelings. One day you will come out on the other side. God bless you, Megan and your family.
By: Ann Eliot-Naille on January 21, 2010
at 3:01 pm
I’m thinking of a friend I’m glad to know
Who lived and suffered in this world below
He’s gone off to heaven and I want to know
What is he doing there now
What is he doing in heaven today
Pain and sorrow have on gone away
Peace that flows like a river I say
What is he doing there now
His loving family gave so much care
With dignity and courage they fought through their tears
Through faith in the cross with no trembling or fear
What is he doing there now
What is he doing in heaven today
Pain and sorrow are all gone away
Peace that flows like a river I say
What is he doing there now
His body was visited by dreadful disease
Physicians and doctors could not give him much ease
He battled ’til death brought a final release
What is he doing there now
What is he doing in heaven today
Pain and sorrow are all gone away
Peace that flows like a river I say
What is he doing there now
Oh, what is he doing there now
(adapted from Charles Albert Tindley)
By: Steve Bowman on January 21, 2010
at 3:50 pm
Dear Henry Family,
We were so sorry to hear about Phil passing. I will always remember him as the charming man that walked through our front door and sold me on his painting company. I went from “just painting one room to three. He was a very talented man! When I found out later he was Dick and Nancy’s son, it all fit. Megan’s poetic words have brought tears to my eyes these last few weeks and I love the thought that Grandma Katie sent a cardinal to guide him home. I know my parents, Jim and Jane Ayers are thinking of you all now and sending their deepest sympathy during this difficult time.
With heartfelt sympathy and support,
Jennifer and Kevin Czerwonka
By: Jennifer Czerwonka on January 21, 2010
at 4:14 pm
He certainly did earn those wings! He will be missed but is pain-free and at peace- cannot ask for much more.
By: Mary on January 21, 2010
at 5:24 pm
Dear Henry Family,
We want you to know how much we enjoyed Phil as a next door neighbor and friend during the last 13 years.
He was such an inspiration as his life transformed during the last decade. We watched him face struggles and challenges with courage and a strong will that was an inspiration to all.
We will always miss his friendly smile and the beautiful flowers he cared for and enjoyed in his yard.
We know Phil has found peace now. Our thoughts will be with you in the days ahead.
The Lynn/Martin Family
By: Mary Lynn on January 21, 2010
at 5:31 pm
The world lost a great, funny and fun, insightful and sometimes brutally honest, generous, nature, people and life loving, courageous man!
I don’t know how you did it Phil!… and did it so well for last couple of years! …
…So much better than many (if not any) of us would have… !
… Yet you kept getting more obstacles your way…so now I hope you rest in peace!
Will miss you and your support (not only in last 9mos) immensely! Wish you could have met Avery (: She turned 5 wks. yesterday.
Fondly,
Ilona
P.S. Jan 20 is Ilona “name day” in Czech – so it’s a very special celebratory day for me and Ilonas in Czech Republic on 1/20…
From here on I will also celebrate your life on 1/20 (and not only then) – for you have touched so many -including me. Thank you!
You will be missed by MANY.
By: Ilona Phillips on January 21, 2010
at 5:59 pm
My thoughts and prayers are with you Henry family!!!
Love,
Ilona
By: Ilona Phillips on January 21, 2010
at 6:01 pm
Peace to Phil and to all his family and friends. Thank you for finding this way to share everything with all of us. We are sad for all of you but glad that Phil is not suffering anymore. Kay
By: kay huebner on January 21, 2010
at 6:35 pm
Dear Henry Family,
Thank you so much for keeping all of Phil ‘s Bill W. friends aware of his need for prayers. We loved him so much. In every meeting his comments came straight from his heart. I am so glad that he is at peace now. I will pray for your family. Phil ‘s passing is a big loss. Love and Peace, Janet D.
By: Janet Dakers on January 21, 2010
at 7:27 pm
Dear Henry Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. My memories of the great times we had growing up are all rushing back to me and I remember Phil as a special person with a great sense of humor and a genuine love of life. Megan, thanks so much for sharing this information with us. May God bless you all.
Love,
Chuck
By: Chuck Grimes on January 21, 2010
at 8:01 pm
Dear Henry Family,
I am so sorry for your loss my prayers go out to your family. What a very sad time for you all I will keep you in my thoughts.
Cathy Merullo Rinehardt
By: Cathy Merullo Rinehardt on January 21, 2010
at 10:04 pm
It is quite amazing to me to read what Phil was able to give to you, his family, even through his tragic ordeal. His gift of a family united is priceless. I am praying for strength and continued peace for you all.
With heartfelt sympathy, Jenn Kraus
By: Jennifer Kraus on January 21, 2010
at 10:51 pm
Dear Dick,Nancy. and all the family
What a great and kind guy he was. I
can still remember him and Mary going
to Kindergarten as we watched them walk
down the street. We did not know who was the most shy. We are so sad for all of you but we
know God and Phil will take care. You
are in our prayers.
Paul. Fran. and Joe
By: Paul.Fran. and Joe on January 21, 2010
at 11:28 pm
Dear Henry Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Phil it felt like we were more like family than neighbors when you all lived in St.Louis. I will never forget the pink rock episode when we came to visit you in Columbus and all the good times we shared in St.Louis.
My deepest sympathy
Ed
By: Ed Manz on January 22, 2010
at 12:13 am
Dear Henry Family, So very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Though many years have passed the memories at the Henry house are some of my fondest. Thank you Megan for sharing his story with us. May God bless all of you. Kerry Dick and family
By: Kerry Dick and family on January 22, 2010
at 12:21 am
Phil flying fast, free at last…hope he’s having a blast, not fretting about his past…full of spirit in the great gig in the sky…
Dick, Nancy, Steve, Dave, Susan, Meghan, and the family…Phil will live on down here, and we’ll all get to see him through you…with utmost respect, and outreach of heart…Todd Reinwald and family.
By: Todd Reinwald on January 22, 2010
at 12:13 pm
Dear Henry Family,
I’m sharing the joy and tears with you all.
I will Phil greatly. And I will think of him and you all always.
May God Bless you all
Festus
By: Festus on January 22, 2010
at 1:52 pm
I didn’t know that things were not going well for Phil. I was shocked when I heard of his passing. My heart is aching for the dear Henry family. Your family has meant so much to so many of us over the years. I will remember the fond memories of our times at your home and all the love and laughter that we shared there. I pray for each of you to find peace in the memories and strength of your beloved Phil. God Bless you.
By: Amy Ryan Boyd on January 22, 2010
at 4:01 pm
Dear Phil,
I am so glad that we spent some time together in the last few years…so sad that our desire to connect recently never happened. I will always remember your smile, your caring eyes and how much you loved the people in your life and how sweetly you loved your kitties. I will miss you so much Phil-see you on the other side. I love you.
(Megan and family- I did Reiki and massage for Phil in particular after the accident–look forward to meeting you at Phil’s memorial.I’m praying for all of you)
By: Suzanne Vickers on January 22, 2010
at 10:09 pm