John D. “Dave” Philo, age 88 of Ocean Springs, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Jane Miller Philo; his parents, Donald and Dorothy Philo; his sister, Sara Dahlke; his brother, James Philo.

Dave is survived by his daughter, Heather (Jeff) Wagner; his sister, Sue Philo of Newport, Oregon; his brothers, Donald Philo, Jr. of Springfield, Oregon and Chuck Philo of Toledo, Oregon, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dave grew up in Toledo, Ohio, and graduated from Clay High School. Immediately following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, beginning a distinguished military career that spanned 22 years. Dave was a Mustang officer, having earned his commission as an officer after serving in the enlisted ranks. He honorably served his country, retiring with the rank of Captain. While serving in the Air Force, he earned his MBA in Finance from George Washington University, a testament to his dedication to learning and professional excellence. During the early years of his military career, Dave met the love of his life, Jane Elizabeth Miller, at a wedding in Plattsburgh, New York. They wed on September 3, 1960, the beginning of a beautiful love story that would span 62 years, filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Dave and Jane supported each other through many ups and downs.

Following his military retirement, Dave and Jane made their home in Ocean Springs, where Dave began a second 25 year career with Ingalls as a financial manager, serving as Director of Program Finance for the CG 47 Program Office at his retirement. He took tremendous pride in his responsibility to the programs he worked with, and often would personally visit the ships and speak to the men and women in the shipyard to better understand the processes. He had many fond memories of his experiences at Ingalls, and made many life-long friendships which continued to his last days.

Throughout his life, he remained deeply committed to serving others. He served as an instructor at MS Gulf Coast Community College teaching finance courses. He was an active member of the Ocean Springs Rotary Club for ten years, and continued to give generously of his time and talents throughout retirement. He volunteered with the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, where Jane served as Executive Director, and with SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives), helping entrepreneurs and young executives build businesses, develop their skills, and find success in their careers. He was the sole caretaker for Jane after she suffered a stroke in 2006, staying her steadfast support until her death in 2023.

Dave never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand. He was a friend to everyone he encountered and generous to a fault. A judo instructor and avid runner, he brought the same discipline, determination, and enthusiasm to his personal pursuits that he carried into every other aspect of his life.

Those who knew Dave knew him as a true servant at heart. He was kind, loving, thoughtful, tireless, and unfailingly generous. Sharp as a tack and always ready with a joke, he had a wonderful sense of humor and a way of making people feel welcome. He could be firm when the situation called for it, but he always led with integrity and compassion. He was a natural leader who never needed recognition. He simply saw what needed to be done and quietly set about doing it.

It is impossible to know how many lives Dave touched through his service, friendship, generosity, and example. He gave so much of himself to his family, his friends, and his community, never seeking anything in return. He loved his family and his community with all his heart, and his legacy will live on in the countless lives he made better.

He will be dearly missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

In accordance with Dave’s wishes a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. His family asks that memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence – Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence

Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd., West Jackson County, is honored to serve the family. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com .