With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great grandfather, Philip Arthur Brandes, passed away peacefully at the age of 91on December 16, 2025. A proud veteran of the Korean War, Phil served honorably in the United States Air Force at the Headquarters, 2nd Bomb Wing of the Strategic Air Command (SAC).

Born on December 4, 1934, in Washington D.C., Phil grew up with strong values that guided him throughout his life. After answering the call to serve his nation during war, he returned home to build a life defined by hard work, integrity, and devotion to family.

He married his beloved wife of 66 years, Sylvia Ann Fabrizio, and lived in Columbia SC. With his father and brother, he owned Southern Armature Company, a staple on Two Notch Road for more than 70 years specializing in providing a range of armature services for industrial and commercial clients.

More than anything, he was the much-loved parent of seven children and took considerable pride in a large and loving family. He taught us the value of integrity, perseverance, and caring for one another. His guidance, quiet strength, and gentle humor will live on in each of us.

Phil found his greatest joy in time spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren offering steady guidance, quiet wisdom, and unconditional love. Family traditions, shared meals, and his many stories of his life will be remembered and cherished. We will miss him more than words can express, and we will carry his love with us always.

Phil is survived by his wife, Sylvia Fabrizio Brandes, his six children: Debra Ann Brandes (Catherine), Michael Joseph Brandes (Melody), Mary Patricia Brandes, Sandra Lynne Lindquist, David Keith Brandes (Laurie), and Brian Todd Brandes (Rayna). He also leaves grandchildren: Shawn Hendricks (Michael), Mason Brandes (Jazmyne), Dillon Brandes, Stephen Bradley (Maggie), Ben Brandes, Sam Brandes, and Christian Brandes; great-grandchildren Alexis Sherlock (Parker) and Kayla Hendricks; and great-great-grandchildren Elijah Michael Hendricks and Logan Ray Hendricks. He was preceded in death by his parents, Solomon and Veda Congleton Brandes; his brother, Max Brandes Sr.; and his son, Philip Mark Brandes.

There will be no funeral service. If desired, the family requests donations be made to any veteran’s organization or charity of your choice in his honor.