Philip Okey Obituary

Philip Cauthen Okey

March 15, 1947 - June 18, 2025

Rock Hill, South Carolina - Philip Cauthen Okey, 78, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, died peacefully at his home in Rock Hill, South Carolina, on June 18, 2025. Philip is survived by his devoted wife Susanne McElveen Okey; children Elizabeth Sweet (Howard) and grandchildren, Mercy and Oscar; Katherine Addison (Scott) and grandchildren Kate, Claire, and Lydia; Philip Okey, Jr. (Maureen) and grandchildren Raine, Regina, Colin, and Amelia. Phil is also survived by his three adoring sisters, Chris Okey Williamson, Susan Okey McLeod, and Margaret Okey Zapack along with many nieces, nephews, and a large loving extended family. Philip is predeceased by his father, Charles Lamb Okey, Jr., mother, Christine Cauthen Okey, and older brother Charles Lamb Okey III. Philip was born in Rock Hill, SC on March 15, 1947 and attended Winthrop Training School. He started dating the love of his life, Susanne, when they were in high school. After graduating from Clemson, Philip married his beloved Susanne, beginning a 55-year marriage. Philip's career led the family to move to Virginia, back to Rock Hill, and then to New Jersey. After returning permanently to Rock Hill in the late 1990's, Philip found new opportunity working for the City of Rock Hill. Philip's love for Rock Hill can be seen in many of the projects he spearheaded, including the Riverwalk Velodrome and numerous beautification projects surrounding Dave Lyle Boulevard. Philip was an active member of the Episcopal Church of Our Savior. In later life, Philip continued to fill his time with family, church, travel, hobbies, and service. "Papa" took great joy in spending time with his grandchildren, whether on family trips, puttering around his woodshop, or playing endless games of cards at home. Philip's most enduring legacy is his loving marriage, and the family that he and Susanne raised. His steadfast love, inherent optimism, good humor, and quick wit made him the best possible husband, father, family member, and friend. Philip will be remembered for telling the best stories, always having a joke at the ready, giving excellent advice, and bringing wisdom and joy to every situation. His gifts for finding the opportunity in every setback and seeing the best in others made him a role model and inspiration for everyone around him. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Philip's medical team including Via Health Partners, especially Shellie Webb; Memory and Movement Charlotte, especially Dr. Aristides Chaconas; Levine's Cancer Center, especially Dr. Seungjean Chai and Dr. Armida Perala-Metz; and his personal physician Dr. Randolph Villamor for their expertise and guidance. A funeral service will be held on Saturday June 28 at 2:00 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour 144 Caldwell St., Rock Hill, SC.