WILMINGTON — Philip T. Rodilosso, affectionately known as Flip, Frito, and most often simply Phil, passed away peacefully in Wilmington, North Carolina, surrounded by love on Sunday, April 6th 2025. He was 82.
Born in Astoria, NY and raised in Garden City, NY, Phil graduated from Garden City High School, Colgate University, and earned his MBA from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business.
He married Nancy Jane Wenk that same year, just before serving in the U.S. Army as an officer, where he ranked as a Second Lieutenant during the Vietnam War. A creative and spirited manager of Officers Clubs, he turned once humble bingo nights into legendary events by revitalizing the game during his time in Alabama—modest prizes like Volkswagens grew into extravagant wins such as AC Cobras, boats, and even airplanes.
Phil began his investment career at Bankers’ Trust. He also taught investment courses briefly at Adelphi University at the start of his career. Later Phil became a Managing Partner at Oppenheimer Capital. A respected voice in finance, he appeared on CNBC. He gave generously of his time to his churches and community.
An avid golfer, Phil shot two holes-in-one and was active at both Long Island’s North Fork and Wilmington, NC’s Landfall Country clubs. He served on various Landfall committees and found joy in connecting with others through service.
Phil had a deep love for books, cars, and meaningful conversation. A true car enthusiast, he owned over 100 vehicles in his lifetime, raced his outfitted Porsche for a number of years at tracks in the northeast, and loved sharing his car passion with friends, the “Amigos.”
Phil was blessed with many friends, a number of whom remained close for his entire life and he greeted new friends as old. He had a quick wit and was well loved in his community.
After the loss of his beloved wife Nancy and daughter Susanne, Phil found love again with Janice Kimrey Anderson. They married in 2020.
Phil was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Nancy Wenk Rodilosso; his younger daughter Susanne Rodilosso Gravelle; his sister Lois Rodilosso Kaivani; and his parents Philip J. Rodilosso and Mary V. Rodilosso.
Phil is survived by his devoted wife Janice; loving daughter Lisa; adored grandchildren Catherine, Abigail, Gavin, Ellot, and Julian; Brother-in-law Pete; former son-in-law Jeffrey; Jeffrey’s wife Kerri; former son-in-law William; stepson Matthew; cherished extended family including sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces & nephews and step-grandchildren of all generations.
He was the honorary “kids’ table” member at every holiday—always ready with warmth, wit, and stories. Phil gave generously to causes close to his heart, including Colgate University, PAWS Place, theAFTD.org, and Wrightsville United Methodist Church.
Phil lived a life full of love, laughter, and purpose. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, connection, strength and smiles.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, April 18, 2025, at Kenan Chapel at Landfall, 510 Arboretum Drive, Wilmington, NC 28405.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wrightsville United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 748, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480.
