Phillip Thayer Eastman, Jr.

Phillip (Phil) Thayer Eastman Jr., 68, of Springfield, PA passed away suddenly on Saturday, August 22, 2026.

Phil was born on January 11, 1958 in Cooperstown, NY and grew up in New Hartford, NY. The beloved son of the late Phillip T. Eastman Sr. and Elizabeth (nee Dunn) and brother of Barbara (Rick) Stevens and David “Bo” (Bonnie) Eastman.

Phil is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Maureen (nee Haley), his son Phillip Thayer (Stacy) Eastman III, his daughter Jaclyn (Patrick) Grenier, and his four grandchildren who adored their Pop Pop: Shayna (age 7), Grace (age 6), Thayer (age 5), and Will (age 3).

A graduate of Cornell University where he was member of the Big Red Marching Band, Phil went on to lead an incredible 44-year career at PECO, most recently as Manager of Economic Development. He retired in 2024 and spent retirement traveling with family and friends (memorable trips include Napa Valley and a European cruise), driving his grandchildren around Delco as “Pop Pop Taxi,” attending sporting events for his grandchildren, and dedicating time to boards and nonprofits to help make the community a better place. He was recently sworn in as a school board member for the Springfield School District and was looking forward to serving students, families, staff, and the wider community.

Phil was passionate about shaping the next generation and helping people build confidence to be their best selves. He coached youth and high school ice hockey for 28 years with both the Quakers Ice Hockey Club and Springfield Cougars Ice Hockey. While he had much success as head coach of the SHS Varsity team (Central League Championships, Flyers Cup Championships), he found joy in helping athletes develop teamwork, responsibility, perseverance, and other lifelong skills to carry them beyond the rink. He mentored student athletes and built a respected hockey program focused on tradition.

His children remember his unwavering support in education, athletics, and life. He always made time to show support at their sporting events and with their other passions. While his children were in school, Phil took the time to write notes each morning and would end each one with “P.S. Have a nice day.”

Phil loved vacationing with family and close friends in Nantucket, MA and looked forward to spending time at “camp”—his family cottage on Lake Otsego in Cooperstown, NY—each summer. Phil was a true family man. He recently purchased a new dining room table that seats 10 so the whole family could sit comfortably together at the dinner table. The house was always stocked with the grandchildren’s favorite treats (including s’mores) and his children’s favorite adult beverages. Whether traveling the world or sitting on his beautiful patio and listening to the Phillies with the love of his life by his side and a glass of red in hand—some of which he produced in-house via “Penn East Vineyards”—Phil loved life and always made sure those around him were having a good time.

Phil’s influence spanned far and wide. He was loved by an entire community, and his legacy will live on through his players, children, and grandchildren. He was a coach, mentor, and friend to many. He was also the greatest brother, son, husband, dad, and grandfather. Remember his beautiful smile, hug those you love, and keep an eye out for Phil somewhere over the rainbow.

Relatives and friends are invited to Phil’s viewing on Friday, August 28, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 10:45  AM at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 136 Saxer Ave, Springfield, PA followed by his funeral mass at 11:00 AM. Interment will be at SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.

The Funeral Mass will be livestreamed and can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/sfaspringfield/ or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxKifJRqC58

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Coach Eastman Scholarship Fund: https://www.saef.net/coacheastman