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Philip Benton Hunnicutt

10/31/1967 - 1/12/2026

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Obituary For Philip Benton Hunnicutt

Newport News - Philip Benton Hunnicutt, born October 31, 1967, in Richmond, Virginia, passed away after a brief illness on January 12, 2026, in Newport News, Virginia. He was 58.

Philip was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Isaac and Joy (Welborn) Hunnicutt. He is survived by his son, Robert Isaac “Zack” Hunnicutt (Lucky); his daughter, Lily Elizabeth Hunnicutt; his sister, Paige Hunnicutt Wilson; and his niece, Carter Paige Wilson.

Philip was a friend to all and truly never met a stranger. He made friends far and wide. He grew up in Midlothian, Virginia, but as a young adult felt a calling to follow the Grateful Dead – a journey that took him across the country, from Florida to Vermont to San Diego. He eventually returned to Richmond to be closer to family and earned a degree in history and early childhood education from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Teaching was Philip’s true calling. He was a beloved Lower School teacher and Cub Sports coach at the Collegiate School for many years. He had a remarkable gift for connecting with students and was well known for bestowing affectionate – and often comical –nicknames on nearly every child he taught.

As an active father to Zack and Lily, and through supporting them on the swim team, Philip became known as the “unofficial mayor of the Southampton Recreation Association.” Many fondly remember his unorthodox but much-anticipated tradition of ceremonially swallowing a raw egg to kick off the annual Fourth of July Egg Toss.

Philip had a passion for cycling and played an instrumental role in helping build and maintain trails throughout the James River Parks system. He was also a regular fixture at Mary Angela’s Pizzeria where, true to form, he made friends with just about everyone.

Philip will be deeply missed by the many lives he touched. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Southampton Recreation Association. The family invites all who knew and loved Philip to come and share stories, laughter, and memories that reflect his spirit and lasting impact.

Simply Cremation is assisting Philip’s family during this difficult time. Please share memories and express condolences at SimplyCremationOnline.com.

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Condolences

  • 01/25/2026

    Susan Eaves

    So very sorry. May he rest in peace.

  • 01/24/2026

    Bunny Guapo

    You were wrong easy going lively person and you never done me wrong. I met you back in 2021 and I have continued on our friendship since then. I respect your capabilities of having fun in your life and doing what made you happy in your life that is important. I wish you peace in your after life journey. It's been nice knowing you feel fly high my friend. ~Ms. Bunny Guapo 🐇

  • 01/21/2026

    Laura and Chris Hogan

    Phil is missed. Sending love and prayers your way. The Hogans

  • 01/17/2026

    Ivan Texler

    That time, Philip, after a show in Charlottesville, that I dragged you and your girlfriend up the "Ridge trail", in the snow, to the summit of "Old Rag Mountain"! That was the first, of that type of adventure, for you, and you handled it like a champ! I have summited "Old Ragged", over one-hundred times, and a piece of you, the memory of that adventure that we shared together, accompanied me on many of those. Now, as you have embarked upon the most mysterious adventure, pondered by man, remember us all, who shared in your life here, for we, most assuredly, will not, forget you! Love, Tex ❤️ 🌹 ❤️ .

  • 01/16/2026

    Brook Beverage

    Phil was sometimes too nice, funny, and generous. He was kind and forgiving. He had all the best traits. I'm happy to have called him a friend. So sorry you were taken away so young and so suddenly. My deepest condolences to his family, you are in my prayers. Brook Beverage.

  • 01/16/2026

    Brook Beverage

  • 01/15/2026

    Benjamin Blevins

    You meet few people in life that quickly arranges a connection or facilitates something that you need with no apparent personal interest in benefiting from the act. In fancy language it is described as operating within a relational ontology. He, more than many, felt the idea that we are expressions of a wave of consciousness. And like the waves Chester crashed through chasing sticks, it returns to the source but is always present. I bet that Chester, Bon and Phil are having a blast.

  • 01/15/2026

    RC Spital

    Phil was an awesome teacher. He was so much fun and was always smiling. I have such fond memories of him. Love and prayer to his family.

  • 01/14/2026

    Carol Williams

    ...I send my deepest condolences to all family and friends. Philip was well-loved, and will be greatly missed by many! Memory Eternal! +++...

  • 01/14/2026

    Jaelyn Townsend

    phil was so sweet and funny, he always tried to put a smile on everyone's face and we had the best talks when we worked together! he will truly be missed! 🤍

  • 01/14/2026

    Leigh Shobe

    next door. and when you miss me most, remember that i have only built a house next door. a single breath away. we can whisper through the walls. and send love notes in the shape of stars and sunsets and the way that the light glistens on the water just so. and although things are hard for you now, i am not far away. i am absent only in flesh but my spirit is dancing with the heavenly ones. we will reach each other once again. i promise. just not yet. find laughter again, okay? find music and purpose and ways to feel alive. we are only separated by a glimmer of time. an interval. take comfort. i have only built a house next door. ullie-kaye Sending prayers of comfort and Peace. Leigh Shobe + Nick, Luke & Noah Kiczales

  • 01/14/2026

    Naiya Morris

    Phil was the funniest man I've ever met, he told the best jokes, and he told the best adventure stories, I'm going to miss his sense of humor and his bright outlook on life.

  • 01/14/2026

    Lluvia Miranda

    Your life was cut short but your spirit will live on in memory. See you on the other side my friend.

  • 01/14/2026

    Amber Muro

    You will be missed. Rest Easy, My friend

  • 01/14/2026

    Todd Hale

    Very sorry to hear of Philip's passing. Sincerest condolences, thoughts and prayers to Zack and Lily and other family members. God bless you all.

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