Philip A. Priola

Philip Anthony Priola October 9, 1923 - December 6, 2025 Philip Anthony Priola, of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away at home at the age of 102 surrounded by his loving family on December 6, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Cosmo and Mary Priola, he was drafted into the army during World War II. During training he attended a USO dance where he met the love of his life, Eleanor. Marrying in 1947, they enjoyed 66 years of marriage and were blessed with seven children. After discharge from the army, he attended Case Western Reserve University majoring in chemistry. Upon graduation he worked for Meyer Laboratories in Detroit, Michigan, and Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Starting out as a chemist, he worked his way up to management and the position of Secretary/Treasurer. Philip was instrumental in the merger of Meyer Laboratories and Glaxo Holdings and continued there as Vice President of Administration and Senior Vice President until his retirement in 1986. He was the driving force behind Glaxo’s growth and success developing many helpful pharmaceuticals including Zantac. His ever-growing family was the delight of his life. He desired to help them at every turn even to his final days. He enjoyed playing golf, making daiquiris, and traveling. He was an avid reader and fitness enthusiast, working out multiple days per week. Preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Eleanor, as well as his loving son, Paul. Survived by his children: Janet Pearce (partner, Vince Valvona), Marilyn Peter, Karen Gray, Patricia Priola, Laura Cooper, and James Priola (Kristin). His cherished grandchildren: Kate Gilreath (Ryan), Allison McPherson (Adam), Bryan Gray (fiancée, Sarah), Michele Basford (Cody), Chelsea Cooper, Jennifer Todd (Kelle), Ian Priola (Taylor), Thomas Phillips, Peyton Priola, Connor Priola, Raegan Priola. His great-grandchildren: Parker Gilreath, Luke McPherson, and Liam McPherson. Visitation will be held on December 18th, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm and December 19, 2025 at 8:30am at Palms West Funeral Home, 110 Business Park Way, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411. Mass scheduled for 10:30 am December 19, 2025 at St. Therese De Lisieux, 11800, Lake Worth Rd, Wellington, FL 33449. Internment service to follow, with Military Honors, at 1:30, South Florida National Cemetery, 6501S. State Road 7, Lake Worth, Fl 33449.