Frederic Dennis Philley, formerly of Montauk, Dies October 16

Frederic Dennis Philley, formerly of Montauk and East Springfield, died on October 16, with his family at his side at Baptist Hospital in Miami following complications from heart surgery. He was 79.

He was born in Binghamton, New York, on March 19, 1946. He graduated from Windsor High School in 1964 and from Springfield College in 1968. He began his career in education as a science teacher and went on to earn a degree in administration from SUNY at Albany, later working as a superintendent in various schools until his retirement in 2000.

He always considered Montauk his home, where he not only was a superintendent but also served as president of the Lions Club, secretary of the Montauk Fire Department and as an EMT on the ambulance squad.

He was an accomplished golfer, who also enjoyed boating and fishing on area waters. He was an individual who loved spending time with his extended family, the Bumps, in upstate New York, and generously gave of himself helping to care for his mother-in-law, Muriel Young.

He and his wife, Ruth, spent five years living aboard his wooden boat, Schatzie, in the summer and spending time in Florida in the winter. They purchased their home in the community of Silver Shores in Key Largo in 2011 as the lifestyle reminded them of Montauk. There, he served on the Board of Directors for two years and participated in many organizations in the area.

He is remembered as a kind man who always sported a smile.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth; his daughter, Taryn Masi, (Chris); granddaughter Leah; his sister Jane Robertson; his nieces Beth, Terri, Geri, Amy and Melissa; his nephews Robbie, Tom, and Jon. He was predeceased by his parents, Theron and Marion Philley; and his brother, Jon Philley.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 22, 2025, at the Shagwong Tavern in Montauk from 4-6 p.m.

Donations may be made in his name to the American Diabetes Association.