1933 – 2016

LISBON — Philip Henry Curless Jr. walked into the arms of his Savior on Saturday morning, Sept. 17, at the age of 83. He passed at his home in Lisbon.

Philip was born in Fort Fairfield on Feb. 19, 1933, the son of the late Philip Henry Curless Sr. and Ella (Mason) Curless. Philip went to school in both Maine and Massachusetts, graduating from high school in 1951. He went on and served the United States in the Air Force and was stationed in Germany. He was honorably discharged in 1962.

Philip worked at various jobs but for most of his working career he was employed at General Electric in Auburn, retiring in 1993. Philip met his wife, Evelyn (Ouellette) in 1963 and they were married on June 13, 1970. They made their home in Lisbon.

Philip loved music. He was an awesome guitar player, as well as singer. In the early 1980s, he traveled to Nashville and recorded a gospel album. Along with his music, he was a very talented artist. Phil was a longtime active member and supporter of the South Lewiston Baptist Church.

Over the years, he was involved in many ministries of the church including: the bus ministry, childrens’ ministries, teaching Sunday School, as well as the music ministry. For several years, he was part of a weekly radio program that aired live every Sunday Morning on WCOU radio with Pastor Anthony Lombardi. After his retirement, Philip and his wife Evelyn enjoyed making trips to Boothbay, Big Al’s and their favorite place Taber’s. In later years, Phil will be remembered as the Werther’s man. He always had his pocket loaded with Werther’s candies whenever he went out to eat and especially at church.

Besides his family, his love for the Lord was evident in his daily life. His daily life always included time spent reading his Bible and in prayer. If Phil told you that he would pray for you, you can rest assured he would.

Philip is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn; his children, Peter and his wife, Kimberly Jo, of Jericho, Vt., Donna Holt of Lewiston, Donald and his wife, Jeannie, of Lewiston and Christina and her husband, Roger, of Bridgton. He is also survived by Janet Mathieu of Lewiston, who he considered a daughter. He also has 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Pauline Curless of Bangor; his sister-in-law, Alice Rodrigue of Lewiston; and his brother-in-law, Joseph Ouellette of Lewiston; and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents; and his brother, Richard Curless.

Condolences, donations, and a video tribute may be found online at www.albert-burpee.com.