In Loving Memory
Phillip Lee Curry
1945 - 2023

Dr. Phillip Lee Curry, a devoted family man and a compassionate healer of countless furry companions, died after a short illness on October 17 in Orlando, FL at the age of 78. His journey—one of education, service, and love—is a testament to a life well-lived.

Phillip is survived by his wife Rita (Ireland), his two daughters Elizabeth and Catherine (Kevin), his two sons Jon and Joseph, as well as his grandchildren Evelyn, Caleb, and Caley.

Born on September 2, 1945, to John and Marilyn (Bauman), Phillip is survived by his sister Merilee, and preceded in death by his brother Jon.

Phillip was born in Bloomington, Illinois but grew up outside of Pittsburgh, PA. In his early years, he
developed a commitment to sports and education, passions that persisted throughout his life. Whether the Steelers won or lost could break his heart like nothing else. He also found great joy in baseball and supporting the Pittsburgh Pirates. He loved taking his kids to college and professional football and baseball games, and instilled in his children a love of the game that continues today, especially in his sons.

Phillip's early adult years were marked by a profound sense of duty and patriotism. He served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1970, including a tour of duty in the Vietnam War. He exemplified the courage and sacrifice of his generation, receiving an American Spirit Honor Medal in basic training and going on to work in military intelligence.

Upon honorable discharge, he embarked on an academic journey that would lay the foundation for his lifelong career in veterinary medicine. In 1972, he earned his Bachelor of Science from Illinois State University. Driven by his passion for animals and a desire to make a difference in their lives, he pursued his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois and graduated in 1976.

Dr. Curry's career in veterinary medicine was nothing short of exceptional. He began his professional journey in Louisville, KY, bringing his expertise and compassion to the care of animals. He continued his practice in Illinois for two decades, and in 1997 brought his talents to the Sunshine State of Florida. In Central Florida, he worked tirelessly as a practice owner, associate veterinarian, and relief veterinarian at numerous clinics in the Orlando area, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of both pets and their owners.
Notably, Dr. Curry dedicated seven years of his life to the SPCA of North Brevard, where his tireless efforts and expertise were acknowledged when he was voted the Best Veterinarian of Titusville in 2013. His surgical skills were nothing short of remarkable, performing tens of thousands of surgeries of all kinds over the course of his career. From soft tissue to orthopedics, there was nothing he couldn't or wouldn't do.

Determined never to retire, his love and drive for veterinary medicine was unwavering. In 2014, he fulfilled his dream by opening his fourth and final veterinary practice on the east coast of Florida, where he continued to care for the beloved pets of Titusville, bringing comfort and healing to countless animals in need. Although it took longer than he expected, his dream of watching one of his children follow in his footsteps happened when Catherine became a veterinarian in 2017; she continues his legacy of compassion and care for animals. In Titusville, he also saw another life-long dream fulfilled when Rita and Elizabeth worked side-by-side with him at the clinic.

His love of animals did not stop at the clinic door. Phillip had ten dogs, fifteen cats, two birds, a rabbit, and several hamsters over the course of his life. He frequently brought home baby wildlife found by concerned clients and would nurse them until they were healthy enough to be released outdoors. At his passing, his dog Oliver, cat Lily, and office cat Mew live on—all of them rescues.

His devotion to his family, and his unwavering love and kindness will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves a significant imprint on this world, and his memory will be cherished by family, friends, colleagues, and clients who loved him dearly.

A celebration of Phillip Curry's life will take place on Wednesday, October 25 from 4pm – 6pm at
DeGusipe Funeral Home in Maitland, FL. Friends, family, and all who were touched by his kindness and compassion are welcome to join in honoring his memory. There will also be a burial service at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in early November; the date is to be determined.