Joseph “Joe” Philbin, 86, of South Yarmouth, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on July 6, 2026, after a long battle of acute leukemia.

Born in County Mayo, Ireland, he immigrated to the United States in 1961. He was predeceased by his parents, Owen and Bridget (Gallagher) Philbin, and 13 siblings. Joe carried on his Irish heritage with pride throughout his life, where he built a wonderful life centered on hard work, family, and kindness.

Joe was the beloved husband of Catherine Patricia Philbin. Together they shared 62 years of marriage, raising a close-knit family and creating countless cherished memories.

He was the devoted father of Joseph Philbin (Julie) of Foxboro, Linda Creavin (Patrick) of West Roxbury, Karen Niak (John) of Walpole, and Stephen Philbin of Lewiston, Maine.

Joe was a proud grandfather of Shane, Austin, Owen, and Blake Philbin; April, Patrick, and Connor Creavin; and Ashley, Angela, and John Niak, who brought him immeasurable joy.

Joe dedicated many years of his employment to both Boston College and Verizon, where he worked as a lineman before retiring in 2001. His strong work ethic never faded. Even in retirement, he was happiest when he was keeping busy.

Joe and Catherine enjoyed spending their summers on Cape Cod and their winters in Weston, Florida, where they made many wonderful friends.

A loyal fan of the New England Patriots, Joe also looked forward to Sunday family dinners and especially loved Catherine’s family dinners and the time spent gathered around the table with those he loved most.

Joe will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous heart, unwavering dedication to his family, and willingness to help anyone in need. He leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and selflessness that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be held in the Robert J. Lawler and Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre St., West Roxbury, on Friday, July 10, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Margaret Mary Church, 845 High St., Westwood, on Saturday, July 11, at 10:00 AM. Interment New Westwood Cemetery.

The family would especially like to thank the Cape Cod Oncology team for their dedicated care and empathy during his final road to recovery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s memory to: Devenport Mugar Cancer Center, Cape Cod Healthcare Foundation, P.O. Box 370, Hyannis, MA 02601  www.givetocchc.org