Phillip Allan May

Known to most people as Phil and affectionately known as ‘Grumpy’ to his grandchildren and other family members, he was born in Providence, Rhode Island, the son of James and Albertina (Sjorgren) May and was raised in Cranston, Rhode Island. He graduated from Cranston High School in 1947 and joined the United States Navy. While in the navy, he attended Brown University for two years followed by two years of flight training. After his navy service, he joined the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country during the Korean War as a radar observer in an all-weather interceptor squadron stationed in Japan.

After receiving an honorable discharge, he returned to his education with renewed purpose. He enrolled at UCLA, where he spent seven years completing a Ph.D. in Economics. In 1960, while attending UCLA, he married the love of his life, Sally Bagby.

Following his graduation, Phil and Sally moved to Marquette, Michigan, where he began his long and meaningful career as an Economics professor at Northern Michigan University. He taught generations of students with dedication, clarity, and compassion, and was remembered by many as both a mentor and a friend. Phil retired at age 62, leaving behind a legacy of academic excellence and personal growth.

Phil’s interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. In his early years, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. After retirement, he planted an apple orchard and discovered a love for playing the fiddle and mandolin, performing in bluegrass bands alongside Sally. He was a gifted artist and woodworker, endlessly creative and always eager to learn something new. Phil cherished time with his family, delighted in nature, and especially loved the beautiful view of Lake Superior from his home. A hardworking man throughout his life, he supported Sally in all her pursuits and found joy in cooking, crafting, and creating a home filled with love.

Surviving are his sons, Philip (Jill) May of Marquette and Eric (Carolyn) May of Houston, Texas; his grandchildren Anthony, Alec, Jessie, and Derek May; nephew Phillip Gibbs; and nieces Jane Roithmayr, Sherry May, and Leslie May.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife Sally; his brother James May; his sister Barbara Gibbs; his nephew Peter Gibbs; and his nieces Andrea Gibbs and Holly May.

Honoring Phillip’s request, no public services will be held.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Marquette Women’s Center, 1310 S. Front Street, Marquette, MI 49855, wcmqt.org. The Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com