Philip M. Walsh

Rye Beach - Philip Malia Walsh of Rye Beach, NH, passed away at age 99 on August 28, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, bringing to a close a whole and incredible life. Born in Portland, ME, on May 10, 1925, he resided in Rye Beach for the last 51 years. Philip lived a life of vitality and accomplishment. Loving husband for 69 years to Virginia (née Welch). Doting Father to Deborah Berry (Husband Clement) and Cynthia Walsh. Proud Grandfather to Cynthia’s children Philip, Elizabeth, and Virginia. He was entirely self-made. He started and owned the first rubbish disposal business in Kittery and Walsh Brothers Moving and Storage. Yet it was in 1960 that he began his life’s work. Along with his wife, Virginia, he started Walsh’s Wayside Furniture Store in Kittery, Maine. A lifetime of business and partnership began. He owned and operated the business for 64 years and remained active at the store until he passed away. He thrived interacting with customers and talking shop with the salespeople and anyone who entered the door. He took great pride in working alongside his grandson Philip, who joined him in the business in 2015. Philip served his country in World War II. He fought at Omaha Beach and in the Battle of the Bulge, among many other battles. His unit was also the first to liberate Berlin, Germany. At a recent ceremony, the small town of Brunssum, Netherlands, which his unit helped liberate, honored him with a plaque. His picture hangs in their town hall, commemorating the efforts during the war. A “Hell on Wheels” member, he was a Corporal Tech-5 Tank Driver of Company C, 66th Armored Regiment of the 2nd Armored Division. He seldom talked about his experiences in the war, but he was widely recognized for his service at two military ceremonies and, in 2023, received France’s highest honor: the Legion of Honor Medal. He was also awarded numerous other medals for his service. Philip lived his life to the fullest, grateful for each day and always with boundless energy. He loved unconditionally and found his greatest joy in his family. He will be deeply missed and remembered always. A private family service will be held with full military honors and rifle salute. We ask that you have a moment of silence in honor of his memory. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in his name by clicking here. or by mail to: 501 St Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 (please include a complete donation form found on www.StJude.org)

Philip M. Walsh

May 10, 1925 - August 28, 2024