Robert N, McPhee

Whitehall- Robert N. McPhee, 94, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025 at Holbrook Adult Home in Granville NY with his daughter & son-in-law, Ellen & Bob,  by his side.

Robert, the son of Frederick and Carrie (Stewart) McPhee, was born on March 23, 1931 in Whitehall, NY. He graduated from Whitehall High School in 1950. In April 1951, he enlisted in the US Navy, proudly serving on the USS Mitscher (DL-2), ending his tenure, as EN2, in March 1955.  Robert joined General Electric Company in 1955, where he worked as Maintenance Supervisor and Purchasing Agent in Fort Edward, NY and Hudson Falls, NY, respectively; retiring in February 1990, after 35 years. 

Robert married Catherine Beckwith on October 13, 1951 at Our Lady of Angels Church. They began their life together in Newport RI, later returning to their hometown of Whitehall NY. Robert and Catherine enjoyed nearly 69 years of marriage.

In addition to his parents, Robert was predeceased by his wife Catherine, his daughter Susan Pope, sisters; Hazel Boullianne, Esther Barrett, and Mary Potter, and brothers; Frederick McPhee, John McPhee and Paul Kelly. 

Robert is survived by his children; Patricia (Laurence) Young, Michael (Janice) McPhee, Nancy (Charles) Henn, Cynthia (Leo) Rigby, Judith Rozell (Shawn), and Ellen (Robert) Touchette. He is also survived by his 17 grandchildren and 33 great grandchildren, who affectionately called him Papa. 

Robert enjoyed being outdoors and spending time with his family, especially camping every summer for many years. He spent many years as a Boy Scout Leader and coaching youth sports. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. Robert was a past member of the Knights of Columbus, Counsil 276 and was a member American Legion, Post 83, for over 35 years.

In retirement, Robert and Catherine traveled in their motorhome to Florida and, in later years, Myrtle Beach SC.  They enjoyed their many vacations in Maine, Hawaii, Arizona & Cruising the Caribbean.  After Catherine’s passing, Robert moved to Holbrook Adult Home, where he spent his last few years enjoying time with his Holbrook family.  Robert loved animals, especially dogs. For most of his life, dogs were a part of his family, including his beloved dog, Sam.  Robert lived a loving and full life. He will be dearly missed and will be forever in our hearts.

Robert lived a life of faith and was an active communicant of Our Lady Angels and Our Lady of Hope church. 

Robert’s family would like to extend a very special thank you to Debra and Christine and the rest of the incredibly caring staff at Holbrook Adult Home for welcoming our Dad into their family. We would also like to thank Holbrook for the extra care provided to our Dad making his final days comfortable and peaceful and to High Peaks Hospice for their care in his final days. We would also like to extend our thanks for the kindness and support given to us, by both Holbrook and High Peaks staff.

Family and friends may call from 9:30 am to 11:am on Saturday June 7, 2025 at Jillson Funeral Home, Inc, 46 Williams Street, Whitehall NY

A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30am at Our Lady of Hope Church, 9 Wheeler Ave Whitehall NY.

Burial will be at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, County Route 18, Whitehall NY, following the Mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Robert’s name to:  Holbrook Adult Home, 73 North Street, Granville, NY 12832 or High Peaks Hospice, 1247 Dix Ave, Hudson Falls, NY 12839. 

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