Phil grew up in Schenectady, New York and spent his youth with his high school sweetheart, Helen Stables. Their love and marriage lasted an inspiring 67 years. Together they began a life of joy, many cars and unwavering partnership. Phil’s commitment to his country was demonstrated by his proud service in the United States Air Force, a chapter of his life that saw him and Helen live in California and raise their family. Upon returning to Scotia-Glenville, Phil and Helen put down deep roots and started a family that would become the cornerstone of his life.
Phil was a man of many talents and his professional life was as varied as it was remarkable. For over two decades he owned the Texaco gas station on Route 7. His commitment to public safety led him to serve with the Schenectady Sheriff’s Department before transferring to the Glenville Police Department, where he was among the first officers to serve on the newly formed force.
During their retirement, Phil and Helen traveled the world, enjoying the joys of travel, from the magnificent wildlife of Alaska to the historic landscapes of Scotland. They also took a winter vacation to Florida to escape the freezing winters in New York.
Phil’s inability to sit still was legendary; he could always be found tinkering away, working on a project or polishing his cars to perfection. In his retirement years, he continued to help others, whether as a driver for CDTA or as a volunteer at the Glenville Senior Center. He was a member of the Scotia United Methodist Church and a mason at Beukendaal Lodge #915.
But Phil’s passion for cars shaped his spirit more than anything else. He was an immense enthusiast and collected and owned 50 remarkable cars over the course of his life. Each vehicle was a testament to his meticulous care and was often presented as a winner at numerous car shows, including his favorite, the Father’s Day car show. His involvement with the Mustang Car Club was a treasured time in his life. Phil is described as skilled, loving and fierce. His legacy is one of tireless energy and a heart that never knew boundaries.
He is survived by his parents Philip and Catherine Benner, who were predeceased. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Helen Benner; his beloved children Jay (Darlene) Benner, Kathleen Harrigan, Philip Edward (Kimberly) Benner III; his cherished grandchildren John Lighthall, Cassandra Benner, Tiffany (Ryan) Van Brocklen, Kayla Benner, Jay Benner and Emily Benner; his adored great-grandchildren Josiah and Hailey Benner, Ryan Van Brocklen Jr., Owen, Kennedy and Ryleigh Van Brocklen; his siblings Edith Stables and Richard Benner; and several nieces and nephews.
Viewing hours will be Saturday, August 24th, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road, following a celebration of life service. Burial with military honors in Memory Gardens will follow immediately.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York, 1003 New Loudon Road Suite 201, Cohoes, NY 12047.
Online condolences at glenvillefuneralhome.com.
