ALEY

PHILIP R.

Philip (Phil) Robert Aley, age 81, died peacefully at home on December 30, 2025, surrounded by family. Phil was a gifted musician and leader, a joyful and dedicated friend and a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

Phil was born in New Castle, PA on February 14, 1944, to Paul Aley and Doris (Day) Aley. He carried on their passions for teaching, faith and music by studying English and music at Indiana University of PA and earning a Master of Music Education from Duquesne University. He began his career teaching music in schools in the Mars, PA area and as Music Director at First Presbyterian Church of Bakerstown, PA. Phil then devoted his career to church music, leading choral groups in Davenport, IA, Chautauqua Institution, mission groups in Malawi and Israel, several Pittsburgh-area congregations, and the South Hills Chorale. Phil shared his gifts, perfected them, and led others to find their gifts. He was devoted to those whom he served, touching their hearts and souls with every song, show and lesson he gave. Phil led with compassion and joy, lighting up every room the moment he entered.

Phil was an avid runner and was proud to complete 2 marathons. When his running slowed to walking, he could be found daily on his neighborhood track sharing his infectious joy to his "walking buddies." This daily practice fueled him with boundless energy and enthusiasm which he poured into his favorite activities: admiring classic and new cars, enjoying lake time in Chautauqua, connecting with friends and family- especially over a good meal or sharing stories with slight embellishments, singing with Pittsburgh's Mendelssohn Choir, decorating for holidays, caring for his beloved dogs, attending a good show or concert, spending time with his grandchildren and coming up with countless ways to make sure his family knew how special and loved they are.

Phil is survived by Winnie (Anderson) Aley, his beloved wife of 59 years; daughters Heather (Tom) Richardson and Kristen (Mike) Walker; and grandchildren Margot Austin, Jack Austin, Ella Austin, Maddy Richardson, Sam Richardson, Teddy Richardson and Lilly Richardson. Also survived by brothers-in-law Tim McFeely, Brett Anderson and Burr (Margaret) Anderson, as well as nieces and nephews John Ritchey, Julie Lent, Rick McFeely, Mary Ann Ritchey, Camille Licklider, Aron Anderson, Christian Anderson, Madeline Anderson and James Anderson. Phil is preceded in death by sisters he adored, Mary Ida (Vaughn) Ritchey and Carol (Tim) McFeely.

Family will welcome friends on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at LAUGHLIN CREMATION & FUNERAL TRIBUTES, 222 Washington Rd., Mt. Lebanon, PA 15216 where a service of remembrance will follow at 1:00 p.m.

Family suggests donations in Phil's memory to Chautauqua Institution Department of Religion (https://www.chq.org/giving/ways-to-give/honorary-memorial/) or the Pittsburgh Light of Life Rescue Mission (https://www.lightoflife.org/).