Herbert P. Phoenix Jr. was born February 18, 1944, to Herbert N. Phoenix Sr. and Dr. Naomi Brown Phoenix in Camden, NJ. He departed this life on October 5, 2023, at Jefferson Medical Center. He was the youngest of two children.

Herbert received his formal education in the Camden school system, graduating from Camden High School in the top 10% of his class. Herbert received a scholarship to Rutgers University where he attended briefly before transferring to Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) majoring in Social Sciences. He continued his studies completing his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Herbert did not stop there – he began working on his Doctorate degree at Glassboro and receiving his Doctorate in Education (ABD) at Temple and Eastern Universities. In addition to his Doctorate degree, he also earned a Master’s in Theology. His thesis is on file in the library at Rowan University earning a new title: Reverend Doctor Herbert P. Phoenix!

Uncle Herbert chose to follow in the footsteps of his mother – an educator. Uncle Herbert substituted in all grades from kindergarten to twelfth grade specializing in teaching grades four and six. He also taught as an adjunct professor for two years at the University of Delaware.

Uncle Herbert served as student associate pastor at Broadway United Methodist Church which he felt served as a culmination of church activities that he began at Ferry Avenue United Methodist, where he served as a church school teacher, church school pianist, choir director and participant, administrative board vice president,  youth president, vacation bible school teacher and participant, special days chairperson, usher, and countless additional positions to service the place he considered his church home: Ferry Avenue United Methodist Church.

In addition to his appreciation of culture and theater, Herbert enjoyed traveling and took joy in meeting new people and creating lifelong friendships. Many know of his love for the art of writing and storytelling. Receiving a letter from Herbert Jr. was always a treat. His handwritten cards and letters were always adorned by beautiful penmanship and purposeful stamps.

He loved God and it showed through his service to the church and community. He was an animal lover – especially loved having dogs and parakeets.

Uncle Herbert was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Sr. and Naomi and brother Harold.

He leaves to cherish his memory nephews Anthony, Maurio (Karen), niece Tammera (Moses Jr.), great-nieces and nephews: Brianna (Jessie Jr.), Laura, Naaila and Niara, Moses III, Maya, Kiera, Nile and Nina and great-great nephew Jessie III, sister-in-law Saundra and niece-in-law LaTonya.

He will be missed by a host of cousins, longtime colleagues, church family, and friends.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/herbert-phoenix-jr/obituary/

Copy