Philip Cannella, aged 91, passed away peacefully on Oct. 3, 2025 at home in Wilton.
He was born on Dec. 13, 1933 in New York City to Ignazio and Maria Cannella. He lived in New York until 1971, when he and his family moved to Wilton, where he resided for more than 50 years.
His first marriage to Cynthia Cannella (née Messinger) ended in divorce. He married his second wife Linda Cannella on Nov. 9, 1991 in Bedford, NY.
Education was paramount to Phil. He was the first member of his family to attend college and went on to earn a BA in accounting from City College of New York, an MS in finance from Baruch College, and a Juris Doctor from St. John’s University.
He enjoyed his work as the treasurer of Great Northern Nekoosa, a fortune 300 company. In September 1989, he was recognized by Institutional Investor Magazine for his innovative approach to financing a $1.15 billion deal for the acquisition of Owens-Illinois.
Post-retirement he volunteered for many years at the New Canaan Red Cross and the Wilton Library. He also taught classes in accounting at Western Connecticut State University and Norwalk Community College.
Phil’s family was his biggest passion. He is survived by his wife Linda Cannella, his first wife Cynthia, children Philip Cannella (Judy), Lisa Stuart (Richard), and Andrew Cannella; and his grandchildren Michael Cannella (Tashia), Kevin Cannella, Ryan Cannella, Matthew Cannella and Hannah Haynes; as well as two great grandchildren Frances and Rory. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He is predeceased by his parents, his six siblings (Joseph, Mary, Frank, Saul, John and Janna), and many of his beloved pets.
On Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 11 a.m. family, friends and others are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Fatima Church with interment to follow at Hillside Cemetery.