Philip Robert Zib, age 73, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Saturday April 19, 2025. Born November 29, 1951, Phil was known for his quick wit, kind heart, and fiercely loyal nature.
A true creature of habit, Phil found joy in the little things: his daily crossword from the Post-Dispatch, an episode (or three) of Jeopardy!, and reruns of The Three Stooges, whose slapstick antics never failed to make him laugh. He was a trivia guru, a pun connoisseur, and an avid sports fan with an unshakable devotion to his Chicago teams.
Phil never missed a chance to connect with friends and family. He was never one to complain and always had a joke or pun ready to brighten someone’s day. His playlist leaned heavy on rock metal, his routines were sacred, and his love for those around him ran deep.
He is survived by his nephew, niece-in-law, their two children, as well as close cousins and second cousins who will miss him dearly. Phil now rests peacefully, reunited with his beloved brother, mother, and father who passed before him.
We know he will be missed by his crew at Murphy’s on 21—may they raise a glass and swap stories in his honor.
In remembering Phil, we celebrate his life and the memories we will carry on in our hearts.
Services: Visitation at Kutis City Chapel, 2906 Gravois, on Friday April 25, 2025 from 10am-12pm. Immediately following the visitation will be a procession to Resurrection Cemetery.
Phil, you brought us more laughter and joy than I can put into words. Thanks for being a friend and a bright spot in this strange world we live in. I promise, you won’t be forgotten. Matter of fact, I might even root for the Cubs tonight in your honor. Cheers to a life well-lived, my friend!
It was an honor to call you a friend and sit next to you at Murphys all of these years. I don’t think I will ever find someone who is as fun and interesting to sit next to. Always was amazed with your general trivia & music knowledge. You single highhandedly earned most of those gift cards and you still always shared. You aint nothin’ but cool Phil. I’ll make sure nothing Cardinals related is at your celebration, especially Molina.
We knew and loved Phil from Murphys on 21. Phil was always pleasant and fun and sure knew his music. A Metallica lover and his Blackhawks we would always kid him about our St. Louis Blues! We visited Soulard with him one weekend and had such a good time ( he knew so many people). Phil had a wonderful memory. He recalled people and stories from years and years ago. We will miss him! A great guy!!!
“When an older adult dies, it’s like a library burning down”.
In the case of Phil, it is like 5 or 6 libraries and a couple of Bookmobiles. This is not hearsay on our part, as we witnessed his amazing knowledge at several trivia’s. He was especially up on sports and was very disappointed his Duke Team was not National Champions. Rest in peace-Diane and Neil
Phil. Much love my friend. So very many intense life moments, from your Blackhawks birthday to you always setting me straight about things… From getting you to stop throwing done cigs, you always sticking up for me, truck driving/cross- country convos, to letting me write answers for your stellar “The Bar” trivia team…. you’ve been such a special friend. May you see all the answers minus back pain; and ultimate happiness- love you Phil.