Philip S. Hampton

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It is with deep sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Philip S. Hampton, a man whose warmth, wit, and generosity touched countless lives. Phil passed away suddenly on May 20, 2025, in Newark, NJ at the age of 74. Born on December 28, 1950, in Binghamton, NY, he brought joy, laughter, and wisdom to everyone blessed enough to know him.

Known by many names—Hamp, Philby, Big Fish, Hambone, P Hilly, Parpie, Papa Smurf—Phil wore each nickname like a badge of honor, a reflection of the deep love and connection he inspired in everyone around him.

Phil grew up on South Street and later moved to First Ward. As a child, he loved fishing with his mother at Rock Bottom Dam—just the beginning of a lifelong appreciation for nature, patience, and peace.

Professionally, Phil dedicated his career to excellence with impactful roles at IBM, Lockheed Martin, and Binghamton University. He created an atmosphere of respect, collaboration, and mentorship everywhere he went, not only accomplishing great things, but elevating those around him.

Outside of work, Phil was a man of many passions. He found deep peace and joy in fishing and passed on this love to his children and family through every season of life. Whether casting a line at dawn or swapping fishing stories with friends, he was in his element on the water. He especially loved fishing for bass, crappies, and perch, and fishing season was a sacred time—marked on the calendar and honored with enthusiasm, patience, and the perfect bait. A lifelong basketball enthusiast, he played in numerous leagues and was a beloved coach at the Boys & Girls Club, where he taught not just skills, but confidence, commitment, and community. Along with these, Phil loved singing (often off-key), dancing with abandon, and turning everyday moments into unforgettable memories.

Phil was a gifted storyteller, a jokester with a razor-sharp wit, and a master of the smart or funny comeback. He kept everyone on their toes—and often in fits of deep belly laughter. His humor was infectious, his presence unforgettable, and his heart endlessly generous.

Above all, Phil was devoted to his family. He leaves behind the love of his life and wife of 41 years, Rose Hampton, whom he often called his greatest catch. Together, they built a beautiful family: He is survived by his children; Michael (Keesa) Hampton, Talyse LaDora Hampton (Zamin) Mirza, and Devan Hampton; a daughter in his heart, Xzavian Johnson; and daughter-in-law Tiffany Hampton, grandchildren; Michael (Amanda) Hampton, Nathaniel (Deshea) Hampton, and Malana Hampton and great grand-children; Jeremiah, Liliana, Michael Benjamin, Rowyn, and one great-grandson on the way.

He is also survived by his cherished nieces and nephews: Valliery Holmes, Ulysses Holmes Jr., Dennis Holmes, and Robert Holmes; sibling-cousins: Carolyn Annette Hampton, Meldra Webster, Jacki T. Clark, and Jean Hawkins. Special people in his life include Bill Peten, Richard Hampton, Clenn Hampton, Michael Hampton, Les Goodwin, and Vertis (Tee) Toran; along with a host of extended family, chosen family, and treasured friends.

Phil was predeceased by his parents, Ellis Hampton and LeDora Scott Hampton; siblings Mary Ellis Holmes and Buster Hampton; brother-cousins Glenn Hampton and Lonnie Hawkins; and his good friend Devan Combs.

Phil was adamant about making friends wherever he went and believed deeply that everyone he met was special. To know him was to laugh with him, learn from him, and feel truly loved by him. His absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but his legacy lives on in every story, smile, and connection he nurtured.

Funeral service will be held Friday June 6th, am at Family Life Church, 157 Clark St. Vestal, NY 13850. Burial to follow at Spring Forest Cemetery, Binghamton.The family will receive friends Thursday June 5th from 4:00pm – 7:00pm at the Hopler & Eschbach Funeral Home, 483 Chenango St. Binghamton, NY 13901 and Friday from 9:30 - 10:00 am at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Boys & Girls Club of Binghamton, 90 Clinton St., Binghamton, NY 13905—an organization close to Phil’s heart and where his legacy of mentorship and love will continue to live on. Please sign his online obituary at www.HEFuneralHome.com

And, as Phil would say, “Why are you still reading? I don’t like you.”

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