Philip Andrew Sykes

Philip Andrew Sykes passed into the presence of Jesus on May 23, 2025. He was born on January 4, 1945 to Harry and Gladys (Walters) Sykes in Erie, Pennsylvania. He had three brothers and one sister. Growing up in in different places in Pennsylvania, Phil had an inquisitive mind, loved trains, fishing and tinkering with anything he could get his hands on. After moving to Lockhaven, Pennsylvania, He graduated High School in 1962. Upon graduating High School, he attended Gannon University, then on to Jamestown College in NY. He was especially gifted at sales and ended up working in Kansas City where he met the love of his life, Sherry Kurfman. The salesman won the girl, and they were married on September 25, 1971 at Olivet Baptist Church by Pastor Floyed Davis. In 1974 they welcomed their son Christopher to their lives. Very soon his work took him to Westlake Village, California. In a few years, they made the move to Texas, and he continued in sales finding his niche’ in the electrical sector. They were blessed with a precocious daughter, Tiffany, in 1982. He continued finding sales success well into his 70’s and enjoyed teaching others the art of making the deal. In late 2024, He and Sherry moved to the family home in Kansas City. Phil, or as Sherry affectionately called him, “George”, was known for his love of his family, golf, shooting with his buddies, and his passionate patriotism. You couldn’t help but feel like he was your lifelong friend and biggest cheerleader after talking to him for five minutes. Within all these hobbies and loves, was the root of his soul in his Savior Jesus Christ. Pastor Davis led him to Christ soon after He married Sherry. Witnessing to the truth of Jesus came naturally as he loved to share about grace. Philip is survived by his wife Sherry, Brothers-- Dennis, Bill, and Gary. His children, Christopher (Candice) and grandson, Stratton and Tiffany (Steve) Pearson and from a previous relationship daughters, Heidi (Eric) Arrington and Shawn Valentine. He is preceded in death by his sister, Joyce. Phil is deeply loved and will be missed by all who knew Him. Yet, hope remains for he is with Christ. A visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at Maple Hill Funeral Home. Funeral Services will begin at 10:30 AM Thursday, May 29, 2025 at Maple Hill Funeral Home with burial to follow at Maple Hill Cemetery.

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Philip Andrew Sykes

January 4, 1945 - May 23, 2025