Obituary of Phillip Terranova

Mr. Phillip Terranova, age 76, of Perth, passed away unexpectedly Monday, August 31, 2020 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Amsterdam. 

He was born September 16, 1943, in Gloversville to the late Benjamin T. and Grace I. Miles Terranova. He was the long-time owner and operator of Phil Terranova’s Auto Body Works in Gloversville, before moving the business to Perth in recent years. Phillip became self-employed at the young age of 21yo, an ambitious and talented entrepreneur. Phillip was blessed to be sought out from far and wide near five decades for his extraordinary talent as well his integrity; always doing right by his customers and his impeccable reputation.

Phillip married his high school sweetheart Patricia I. Ault, in 1963 and they would’ve celebrated their 57^th year of marriage later this year in October. Patricia left her earthly home in March. Phillip was overcome with the absence of his beautiful bride and the COVID-19 restrictions further exponentialized his grief prohibiting his daughter, his pride and joy to be able to visit him once he took residence at Wilkinson Residential Health Care Facility.

Phillip is pre-deceased by his beloved parents, Benjamin T.  and Grace I. Terranova; his sister, Donna M. Terranova; his brother Wayne Terranova and most recently his cherished bride who departed in March 2020, Patricia Terranova. Phillip is survived by his daughter, Sherry Terranova, of Albany. He is also survived by brother Josesph Terranova, several beautiful nieces and nephews.

Phillip was a kind and generous soul. He was a gentle man in addition to being a gentleman.  A man of sound faith. A man who could fix and or build anything. A man of integrity and many talents. His life evolved around his bride and his daughter. He lived to provide for, keep them cared for and make them happy any way he could. He was a master on the dance floor, always showcasing his beautiful bride – talent perhaps learned or passed on from his ball room competition winning parents. He made everything better than he found it. He instilled confidence into his daughter – to never settle or give up. He passed on his father’s winning spirit, lightweight boxing champion Tornado Ben Terranova, to NEVER GIVE UP! He is the reason she has made the accomplishments she has and has survived all challenges life has thrown her way thus far. He taught her perseverance. He bought her first car at 3yo – a mini MG just like her mother’s – because only the best for his girls! He taught her how to drive a stick, tow, launch and operate boats. He was a boat enthusiast and we spent as much time on every lake from the Adirondacks to the Canadian border as was humanly possible. His life was his family and his faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was a fan of Johnny Cash. His patience was never ending. He was very particular about his Italian fare, of which only his mother, his bride and his daughter cut the mustard. He was a member of Perth Bible Church. His favorite hymn was “the Old Rugged Cross”.  He lived by John 3:16 and passed on to his daughter, Phil 4:13, in order that she would be able to carry on no matter the challenges encountered.

Sherry would like to express her sincerest appreciation of all the kindness bestowed upon us from friends, family and church members who have been supportive and prayed for our peace at this time. We’d also like to extend our heartfelt appreciation the MDs, nurses and staff at St. Mary’s Hospital and Wilkinson Residential Facility, Amsterdam, NY. 

Cremation will take place at Parkview Cemetery Crematorium, Schenectady.  

In light of our family having been so impacted by cancer, our hope is we can contribute to helping children.  Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Via 1800-822-6344. Memorial ID 12131201. All contributions impact and help to save children’s lives.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, Gloversville.

Online condolences to the family may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com