Philip James Minicozzi

Anyone who met Philip quickly learned two things about him: he could make you laugh, and he was probably already figuring out how to fix something around you.

Philip James Minicozzi passed away at the age of 39 in Selden, Long Island, New York.

He is survived by his loving mother, Ann Minicozzi; his father, Phil Minicozzi; his brother, Angelo Minicozzi; and his sisters, Kym and Kristen Tinsley. Philip was deeply loved by his family and many friends whose lives he touched and who will miss him dearly.

Philip was born on April 1st—April Fool’s Day—a date that seemed perfectly fitting for someone who carried such a playful spirit and sense of humor throughout his life. This past April marked the first time his family celebrated his birthday without him. He would have been turning 40.

Growing up in the 90s, Philip moved with his family to several places over the years, but the place that always felt most like home to him was East Meadow. It was there that he went to school, built lifelong friendships, and met the love of his life, Jessica Ann Wood, who is now reunited with him in heaven.

Like many kids of the 90s, Philip spent most of his time outside until the sun went down. Whether it was playing street hockey, manhunt, ding-dong ditch, or spending hours at the handball courts, he loved being outside with friends and living life to the fullest. Philip was an outdoors kind of guy that would go hunting with his bow and arrow or go to the shooting range to practice. He never actually hunted anything, he just liked the idea of it! He spent many hours riding his bike and learning how to jump his bike on ramps that him and his brother Angelo would build to practice. Angelo and Philip were true brothers that were always together through everything. Philip had his special relationship with each of his family members. He loved everyone for who they were.

Known to friends and family as Peanut—and sometimes jokingly called “Dickhead” by those closest to him—Philip had a personality that could light up a room. He loved to laugh and had a way of making others laugh even when life felt heavy. he showed up for people when they needed him the most. He was a light.

Philip was naturally smart and had a gift for fixing things. He loved his tools and enjoyed taking things apart just to understand how they worked. He didn’t believe in replacing something if it could still be repaired. That curiosity and determination were simply part of who he was.

One memory that always brings a smile is Philip’s 25th birthday celebration. Friends and family gathered at a bar to celebrate, and as the night went on and everyone got a little tipsy, someone decided karaoke was a great idea. What followed was a group attempt at singing that can only be described as a complete disaster. Philip stepped away from the microphone and stood back watching as everyone tried—and failed—to keep up with the lyrics. Instead of joining the chaos, he just stood there laughing at all of us, enjoying the moment in the way only he could.

Philip was the kind of friend who could talk you through difficult moments or simply bring a smile to your face when you needed it most. He had a big heart and a loving spirit. Sometimes that big heart made life complicated for him, but it also made him someone people cared deeply about.

In his free time, Philip loved playing handball, going to the shooting range, fishing, and spending time with his beloved dogs, Maddie and Princess.

Philip could be easygoing one moment and complicated the next, but above all else he was deeply loved. His laughter, his stories, and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Things Philip Would Say

Anyone who knew Philip can probably still hear his voice in these familiar phrases he used all the time:

• “You’re an asshole!”

• “Oh realllly?”

• “Just forget about it.”

• “Yeah I’m coming.”

• “So what’s going on?”

• “I love you more.”

They were simple words, but when Philip said them, they carried his humor, his personality, and his heart. For those who loved him, these phrases will always echo in memory.

Philip will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His spirit lives on in the hearts of those who loved him.

And as Philip always said:

“Keep fishing in life. Maybe one day you will catch something.”

From his sister Kristen:

Growing up with you meant a lifetime of memories, laughter, and moments only siblings truly understand. Being your sister was one of the greatest gifts of my life. I will always hold our memories close and keep your spirit alive in my heart. I love you and miss you more than words could ever express. We know that you will be waiting for us all, but for now, rest happily reunited with Jessica.

Save us a fishing spot.