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Phillip Merle Reiter, 89, of Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family, on January 10, 2025. Born on November 20, 1935, in Reynoldsville, he was the son of the late Carl D. and Ellen Elizabeth (Dinger) Reiter. Phillip married Joyce "Judy" (Mulhollan) Reiter on September 14, 1957; she preceded him in passing on January 11, 2013, in Reynoldsville.
Phillip honorably served his country in the United States Army. He dedicated his career to the Iron Workers Union, Local 772, based in Clearfield, PA. After retirement, he worked at his daughter-in-law’s candy shop, "A Sweet Occasion." A devout member of the Reynoldsville First Methodist Church, Phillip served faithfully as Lay Leader, Trustee, and member of the Staff-Parish Relations Committee. He was also a longtime member of the church choir, Men’s Bible Class and the Good Samaritan Class.
Known for his love of gardening, Phillip took great pride in tending to his land and enjoyed spending time outdoors. He and his late wife cherished riding bicycles together. His unwavering faith was evident through his active involvement in the church, demonstrating a quiet yet profound devotion. Phillip was a constant supporter of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, taking immense pride in their achievements. His memorable smile left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He was a friend to all. “If he met you, you were his friend.”
Phillip is survived by his daughter, Kimberly L. Tagliaferre of Reynoldsville, PA; his son, David P. (Kimberly) Reiter of Canton, OH; two sisters-in-law, Mary Lou Mulhollan and Judy Mulhollan; one granddaughter, Brittany (Gabe) Bowley; three grandsons, Brandon (Ashley) Reiter, Wesley (Rebecca) Tagliaferre, and Jeremy (Carolyn) Tarpey; and eight great-grandchildren: Everett, Emerson, and Everly Reiter; Jude, Arlynn, and Ryder Bowley; and Leah and Mason Tagliaferre. He is also survived by Gayle Borden, affectionately known to him as "His Sweetie."
Phillip was the last surviving member of his immediate family. In addition to his wife and parents, Phillip was preceded in death by his brothers, Kenneth (Nola) Reiter, Max (Bonnie) Reiter, and Harry (Janet) Reiter; and two brothers-in-law, James Mulhollan and Ronald Mulhollan.
Family and friends are invited to attend a public viewing on Monday, January 13, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Reynoldsville First Methodist Church, 504 Jackson Street, Reynoldsville, PA 15851. A second viewing will take place on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the church, followed immediately by the funeral service at 11:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Becky Edwards. Military honor’s will be rendered as part of the funeral service. Interment will follow at Lakelawn Memorial Park, Winslow Township, Jefferson County, PA.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Phillip's name to the Reynoldsville First Methodist Church - Trustees Fund, 504 Jackson Street, Reynoldsville, PA 15851.
Online condolences and additional information can be found by visiting the funeral home's website at www.dargyfh.com.