Philip P. Caltagirone's Obituary
Philip Perricone Caltagirone, 102 years old, was called home to our heavenly Father, on November 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving and dedicated family. Philip was born on June 27, 1923, in Ybor City, Florida, to the late Alfonso and Angelina Caltagirone. He is preceded in death by his loving and beloved wife, Jennie D’Elia Caltagirone of 69 years, his sister Carmen and brother-in-law Tony Manali, and his brother Joseph and sister-in-law Dora Scolaro. Philip was the dedicated father of four children: Michael (Cristina Crespo), Louis (Roberta), Darlene Ojala (James, deceased), and Jo Anna Piazza (Joseph). Philip was also a loving Nano to nine grandchildren: Angelina Carter, Louis Caltagirone, Jr. (Emily), Paul Caltagirone, Carla Caltagirone, Victor Ojala, Genevieve Ojala, Trey Curry, Christopher Piazza (Melissa), Giovanni Piazza (Sace), and eleven great-grandchildren: Joshua, Jennifer, Mallory, Kai, Nathan, Gabriel, Tristan, Joshua, Jacob, Zaylee, and Zyon.
Philip graduated from Hillsborough High School, class of 1942. He joined the United States Navy in February 1943, and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, being honorably discharged after three years as an Aviation Ordnanceman third class.
In 1953, Philip, as an entrepreneur, started his own business, Girone Tile and Floors, which later became Girone & Sons. He was a lifetime member of the L’Unione Italiana. With his expertise and skill, he took a passionate and active role restoring the Italian Club Cemetery throughout. Philip was instrumental in starting the Loggia Mona Lisa #2699, Order Sons of Italy in America. He was honored as the recipient of the 2012 Lions Club Victor E. DiMaio, Sr. Achievement Award ~ one who excels in promoting and enhancing the unique aspects of Ybor City heritage. In 2018, at 95 years old, Philip traveled with his brother, Joe, on a World War II Honor Flight to Washington DC.
Memorial contributions may be sent to the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, 5620 E. Fowler Avenue, Suite B, Tampa, Florida 33617, or to the Italian Club Cemetery Fund, 1731 East 7th Avenue, Tampa, Florida 33605.
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