Philip M. Burkey, 74, of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, passed away early in the morning on Saturday, January 17, 2026 in his home, with his wife and daughter by his side. Born in Coaldale, Pennsylvania, on April 2, 1951, he was the son of the late Joseph B. and Theresa A. (Sharpe) Burkey.

Philip graduated from Tamaqua High School in 1969, where he was a member of the Blue Raiders football team. He earned a B.S. in History from Gettysburg College and later acquired an MBA from Temple University. He dedicated his career to human resources, holding positions at Conrail, The American College in Bryn Mawr, and VWR Corporation. Earlier in his career, he briefly taught at Montoursville High School. An avid reader and an accomplished artist specializing in oils, Philip found joy in painting landscapes and street scenes, skillfully capturing the essence of the people within them.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Mary Edith (Ditchey) Burkey; his daughters, Cathlin M. Burkey and Nora D. Burkey; his sister, Kathleen M. Burkey; and the cherished family dogs, Sufi and Lucy.

Private arrangements entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. 

Memorials in Philip's name may be made to his daughter's non-profit, The Chain Collaborative, which supports coffee-farming families living in poverty: The Chain Collaborative, 133 Federal Walk, Kennett Square, PA 19348.

You may also reach out to the family at eburkey@comcast.net to purchase a painting of Philip's. Proceeds will support: The Pay to Participate Fund of Tamaqua Area School District.

Online condolences or a fond memory of Philip may be made to the family at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com