John Francis Phalen

John Francis Phalen, 87, of Little River unexpectedly passed away on Oct. 19, 2020. 

John was born June 19, 1933, to Paul and Lorna (Leonard) Phalen of Rossie, N.Y.  He was the oldest of six children.

John graduated from Mohawk Central School  Mohawk, N.Y. in 1952. Soon after he joined the Navy where he was honorably discharged and returned home to Mohawk, N.Y., to help his mother raise his five siblings after his father passed away. He met and married Jean Corcoran, in 1957. Together they raised four children. He was employed by General Electric in 1953 and retired in 1992.  

The Patriarch of the Phalen family, he provided strong guidance to his siblings, children and grandchildren throughout his life with his focus on strong morals, leadership, schooling and affection. John always had a smile on his face and a story to tell. His life lessons helped generations to grow into the loving family he has left behind. He will be missed by all, but the lessons and stories he imbedded in all of his family throughout the years will never be forgotten.  

John’s hobbies included a strict budgeting system, researching family history, sending out monthly birthday emails, taking care of his boy Linus and ensuring that the love of his life, Jean, had everything she needed. They enjoyed 63 years of marriage together.

He is survived by his wife, Jean (Corcoran) Phalen; children, Patricia Lucey (husband William); Paul Phalen (wife Diane); Daniel Phalen (wife Karen); Colleen Phalen (Martin Hahn);  grandchildren, William Lucey; Aaron McColough (wife Angelena); Jacob Phalen; Mark McColough; Addison Phalen (wife Emily); Makenzine Phalen; Kassidy Phalen; Justus Phalen; Abigail Phalen; Samuel Johnson; and Alexander Phalen; great-grandchildren, Ryan McColough; Rhea McColough; Thomas Gay; and Hugh Hacker.

John is also survived by his siblings, Lois Nevils; Kathryn Knewasser; Michael Phalen; Thomas Phalen; in-laws, Jane Luppino (husband John); Kathy Mabbett (husband Dick); Jay O’Neill and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents, Paul and Lorna Phalen;  brother, David Phalen; in-laws, David Knewasser; Delores Phalen; Barb Phalen; Eileen Phalen; Frances Phalen; Sheila Short; Betsey O’Neill; and Phil Corcoran.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no calling hours or services.

Donations may be made to the American Heart Association or American Cancer Society.

A guest book is available at www.leefhandcrematory.com.

Lee Funeral Home & Crematory of Little River/North Myrtle Beach is serving the family.