Philip Joseph Scardino

Philip Joseph “Phil” Scardino passed away on August 13, 2026 in Huntsville, Texas, at the age of 95. He was born on November 4, 1930 in Houston, Texas, the son of Joseph and Mary Scardino. Phil lived a life defined by service, leadership, family, and faith. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for nearly 24 years, rising to the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, the Air Force’s highest enlisted rank. During his distinguished military career, Phil served overseas during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious Service. Phil earned this distinctive award for sustained exceptional performance, leadership and valuable service in a combat environment. He also earned the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, as well as additional oak leaf clusters recognizing repeated exemplary service. Following his military retirement, Phil continued serving in roles that contributed to some of America’s most historic aerospace achievements. He supported NASA’s Apollo 17 mission, the final mission to land astronauts on the Moon, and later received formal recognition for his contributions to the Skylab program. He served as Fire Chief at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and was promoted to Contract Specialist and Safety Compliance Manager of the Air Force Contract Management Division. His role was to ensure that defense contracts were executed efficiently and met the required safety standards. Later, he contributed his expertise in aviation safety and fire protection for work associated with the C-17 Globemaster III program, often regarded as the backbone of modern American military aircraft logistics. Away from work, Phil loved traveling and took great joy in exploring new places. He fulfilled a lifelong dream of traveling to Sicily, where he visited the ancestral hometowns of Alia and Poggioreale, leaving him with treasured memories. Phil rarely traveled without his golf clubs. He shared his passion for golf with his family. An accomplished golfer, Phil achieved the extraordinary feat of recording 12 holes-in-one during his lifetime. His final ace came on his 93rd birthday. Phil was respected for his leadership, integrity, work ethic and dedication to others. While his accomplishments were many, his greatest pride was his family. Phil is survived by his brother Peter Scardino; his son and daughter-in-law Joe (Theresa) Scardino; his beloved grandchildren Kerrie Larpenter, A.J. Scardino, and Kiley Scardino; his great-grandchildren, Ryan Larpenter and Ella Larpenter; his nieces Tamera (Horace) Borak, Tina (Randy) Allmaras; his nephew Stan (Susan Estrem) Scardino; and several great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Anthony Scardino; his daughter Brenda Ryan; his sister-in-law Pat Scardino; and his niece Tania Scardino. Phil leaves behind an enduring legacy of service, perseverance, and excellence. He lived his life fully and honorably. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered and forever appreciated by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Phil trusted in God’s grace throughout his life and found strength and purpose in his Catholic faith. “Well done, good and faithful servant. May Phil rest in the peace of Christ and enjoy eternal life in God’s loving presence. Amen.” Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 10:30 am, preceded by a rosary at 10 am. A reception at the church will follow the service. Prince of Peace Catholic Community 19222 Tomball Parkway Houston, Texas 77070 Graveside burial will be held at the Houston National Cemetery. 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive Houston, Texas 77038 In honor of Phil, donations may be made to the UT M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.

Philip Joseph Scardino

November 4, 1930 - August 13, 2026