Philip Michael Courtney, 76, known affectionately by many as “Big Phil,” passed away on April 18, 2026, leaving hearts heavy for all who loved and knew him. Born on October 22, 1949, to Jack and Frances (Chinnici) Courtney, Phil grew up on The Hill, where he developed a lifelong pride in his Italian roots and a deep love for his community.
A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, Phil returned home to build a life defined by service, dedication, and hard work. For 35 years, he owned and operated Courtney’s Heating and Cooling near the Bevo Mill. A fixture of South St. Louis, he earned the nickname “Big Phil by the Bevo Mill,” a reflection of his larger‑than‑life personality and reputation.
Outside of work, Phil cherished simple, enduring pleasures. In his younger years, he loved boating at the Lake of the Ozarks; later in life, he found joy on the golf course, playing bocce ball, and competing in poker tournaments.
Phil is reunited in peace with his beloved wife of 47 years, Susan Lee Courtney. He is survived by his children, Christy Brooks (Matt), Karen George, and Holly Courtney; his sister, Karen Brengard (Mike); and his five grandchildren, Tristan, Kiereyon, Evan, Cameron, and Parker. Phil loved his family and friends fiercely and will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
SERVICES: a MEMORIAL VISITATION will take place on Thursday, April 30 from 9:00 am until time of MEMORIAL MASS at 10:00 am at St Ambrose Catholic Church 5130 Wilson Ave. Burial at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Mercy Hospice – de Greeff Hospice House,
10024 Kennerly Road, St. Louis, MO 63128.
Susan Lee Courtney
Susan Lee Courtney, 78, passed away on February 28, 2026, leaving the world a little less bright—and a lot less quiet. Born on August 14, 1947, to Allan and Maxine (Haas) Rogers, Sue was a woman of vibrant energy and unmistakable character.
Sue was the engine behind the family business, working side by side with Phil for 35 years until their retirement in 2017. She was known for her “no filter” honesty, strong opinions, and a stubborn streak matched only by her capacity to love. After moving to Florida, Sue fully embraced retirement, filling her days with friends, golfing, crafting, playing Mahjong, and walking the beach in search of the perfect shell.
She is survived by her brother, Tom Rogers; her sister, Cathy Eime (Ron); her daughters, Christy (Matt), Karen, and Holly; and her cherished grandchildren. She also leaves behind her faithful companion, her dog Paisley, who rarely left her side. Sue’s bright smile and sharp wit will be remembered by everyone who knew her.
A Life Shared
Married for 47 years, Phil and Sue Courtney built a life rooted in partnership, perseverance, and love. After decades of running a family business and raising their daughters, they retired in 2017. Retirement gave them the opportunity to travel more, spend meaningful time with family and friends, and enjoy extended stays at their Florida home—eventually making the move from St. Louis permanent.
They embraced this next chapter together, filling their days with travel, golfing, walking the beach, and savoring the slower pace they had earned. Whether exploring new places or revisiting favorite destinations, they cherished experiencing the world side by side.
Their legacy lives on through their children, grandchildren, and the many lives they touched along the way. Phil and Sue’s story is a testament to enduring love, hard work, and a life well lived—together.
A true friend
When you’d hear “Waddy a doin”
When he’d call ☎️ you”d be on the phone with him for ever,
But I enjoyed hearing from him.
His interpretation of the English
Language was endearing.
Im gonna miss you Man❤️🇺🇸💭
JLG
My condolences to the family.
He definitely will be missed.
Ron Puricelli
I knew Phil and his sister Karen when we were youngsters growing up on the Hill. We used to play soccer and baseball on a field behind St. Ambrose Church and school. Remember distinctly that Sister Francine was our 5th grade teacher/nun. I guess there are probably many south siders like Phil who are now in heaven. Hope they are saving room for me up there so we can play those sports again sometime in the future and in heaven. RIP Phil. You was one fine person.
I have known Phil since we were teenagers as he was friends with my sister Jean. His behavior was definitely unique and you never knew what he would say next. He was one of a kind. I can still hear him saying,”Hey, Babe” whenever he saw you.
I was saddened to hear of Phil’s passing; he was a great guy and always made me laugh! We graduated together from St. Ambrose, Class of 1964 and his company serviced our home and apartments for many years. You could always count on Phil and his family and I’m so happy that he was able to enjoy himself in retirement, he definitely earned it. The last time I saw Phil was at a St. Ambrose alumni breakfast and one of our classmates said she didn’t recognize him and asked who he was, without missing a beat he responded …”ME…. I’m Joey Buttafuoco”…I’m still laughing!!
RIP my friend!
Phil will be missed by the Hagedorn Family as a Great Neighbor while living on The Hill.
I graduated from st Ambrose with Phil and went on several golf trips with him everybody’s friend I will be out of town for his funeral if there is no golf in heaven I don’t want to go a big Phil quote
Phil and I met in the US Navy in 1968. Two young kids from middle American cities off to see the ocean and travel around the world but first we had to do a “tour” of Vietnam. There were some long days on that tour and Phil’s humor made it easier.
We sailed the seas, visited many countries, saw some crazy things, and met some very interesting folks.
For the past 20+ years Phil and Sue, me and my wife, a a few other Navy friends have gathered yearly at the USS Boston Shipmates reunions all over the US. Sue was was a wonderful lady and the two were great fun to be with.
They were genuine , kind, and could each tell a good story. He was my very good friend and well a brother from another mother…
I’d rather we would be together on a lunch cruise on some waterway but I’m glad they are together and I, we, will miss them. Truly.
God Bless Phil and Sue
Enoch & Helen
Holly
So sorry about your father and mother
Both were always kind and sharing to me and my family
Phil, was definitely a unique guy in many ways and could always make you laugh. I respected Phil for hard work and dedication to his craft. Never did I worry about the service he did for me. Now his golf game was something to behold.
Fillipo, love you man and will miss ya