Philip F Davis

Philip F. Davis, 82, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Overlook Medical Center. Born May 10, 1943, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Phil lived a life defined by dedication to his family, pride in his work, and lasting friendships built over a lifetime.

Phil was a graduate of Woodbridge High School and later earned his Associate of Applied Science degree from New York City Community College. He proudly served his country as a member of the Army NationaL Guard and later continued his service as a member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

He began his professional career at Esso Research Company. His path soon led him into the automotive industry with Humble Leasing Service, beginning a career that would span decades and leave a lasting impact on the field of fleet and commercial automobile sales. Phil later became an executive with Hertz where he developed deep relationships throughout the automotive industry. His reputation for integrity, knowledge, and dedication ultimately led to his recruitment by his mentor and close friend Maurice Polkowitz, owner of Motors in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. There he served as Director of Fleet and Commercial Sales.

Under his leadership, the dealership became the number one Cadillac and Buick fleet specialist in the region. His contributions to the industry extended beyond the dealership as he helped lay the foundation for the New Jersey Chapter of the National Vehicle Leasing Association. Phil’s excellence in automotive sales was also recognized by General Motors through his induction into “The Cadillac Crest Club” for many years, honoring him as one of Cadillac’s top sales professionals.

For more than five decades, Phil proudly called Rahway, New Jersey home. He also cherished time spent at his vacation homes in Tuckerton, New Jersey, and Bonita Springs, Florida, where many memories were made with family and friends.

In 1966, Phil married the love of his life, Joann G. Davis. Their marriage was one of deep love and partnership until Joann’s passing in 2010. Together they raised two sons and built a family that remained the center of Phil’s life.

After retiring from the automotive industry, Phil joined Joann in her business selling socks and underwear. Together they operated locations in East Brunswick, Howell and Manahawkin, New Jersey, while also traveling to festivals and special events along the Jersey Shore.

In more recent years, Phil’s passion for helping others was most clearly seen through his work at New Dover United Methodist Church in Edison, New Jersey. Alongside fellow church members, he worked tirelessly to ensure that those who were struggling would not go hungry. Phil helped organize and support various church initiatives to bring food to people in need throughout the community. If you knew Phil, you likely heard stories about the many sandwiches he and his fellow volunteers collected from Wawa stores throughout Central New Jersey. He took great pride in helping gather and distribute these donations, always motivated by the simple belief that no one should have to wonder where their next meal would come from or how they would pay for it.

Above all, Phil was a devoted father and proud grandfather whose greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his sons Joseph P. Davis and Christopher E. Davis; his daughter-in-law Kathryn Davis; and his cherished grandchildren Clayton, Carter, and Margaret. Joseph and his family reside in Piscataway, New Jersey, while Christopher resides in Tuckerton, New Jersey.

Phil will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather, a respected professional, and a loyal friend whose kindness and generosity touched many lives. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the countless people he helped along the way.

A service celebrating Phil’s life will be held at New Dover United Methodist Church, located at 687 New Dover Road in Edison, New Jersey, on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Friends and family are invited to gather beginning at 10:00 a.m. for light breakfast foods and beverages. A church service and celebration of Phil’s life will begin at 11:00 a.m. Those who are unable to attend will have the opportunity to view the service online. In lieu of flowers, Phil’s family asks that donations be made to New Dover United Methodist Church in Phil’s name to support the food mission he so proudly helped lead.

Phil often reminded those around him that “We All Have A Story to Tell.

” His story—one of dedication, kindness, generosity, and love for family and friends—is one that will continue to be told and remembered by all whose lives he touched

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