Philip J. McGrath, Sr. passed away peacefully on July 17, 2016 at the age of 96. He lived a long and fruitful life. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years Eleanor Smith; sons Brendan and Paul; parents Maurice McGrath and Winifred (O’Reilly); sister Mary; and brothers John (Irene) and Maurice (Joan) his identical twin. He is survived by two daughters; Maura (Howard) Johannssen and Elizabeth Ann; sons Philip (Catherine), Maurice (Bette), and Matthew; daughters in law Catherine Kenny and Aileen Whyte. Phil was devoted “Papa” to his grandchildren: Kristopher (Kerry) Johannssen, Maurice (Sarah), Garrett, Christopher, Connor (Erin), Deirdre (Aaron), Rachel (Matt), Brendan, Liam, Fionn, Hugh and Soarla and great granddaughter Jillian Johannssen. He was beloved “Uncle Phil” to his many nieces and nephews. Phil attended All Hallows high school and Fordham University in the Bronx, NY. He was drafted in 1941 and was commissioned a lieutenant in the Army Air Corps. He served in campaigns in North Africa, the Mediterranean, Italy, France and Germany. Phil was awarded the Bronze Star, the American Campaign Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 8 battle stars and the World War II Victory Medal. Following military service he attended New York Law School and was admitted to the Bar. He practiced law with Mendes & Mount in Manhattan and retired in 1990. Phil lived his last 3 years in West Hartford CT but was a long time resident of the Bronx, a devoted parishioner of St. Margaret of Cortona Parish and an active member of many community organizations including the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, County Cork Association, United Irish Counties Feis Committee, and the Riverdale Irish Society. At his request, any donations may be made to the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Newington CT (860-667-6718) to aid veterans in need. A wake will be held on Thursday July 21 from 7-9 pm and Friday, July 22 from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm at Riverdale on Hudson Funeral Home, 6110 Riverdale Avenue, Bronx NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 23 at 9:45 am at St. Margaret of Cortona Church, 6100 Riverdale Avenue, Bronx NY followed by interment at Gate of Heaven, Hawthorne, NY.