Richard W. McPhilomy

Castleton- Richard W. McPhilomy, affectionately known to generations of students and athletes as "Coach Mac," passed away on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at Shaker Place Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Albany, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on January 16, 1933, in Schenectady, NY, Richard was the son of the late Richard and Helen McPhilomy. He spent his formative years in Rexford, NY, and had made Castleton his home since 1981.

Richard pursued his education at New York University, where he completed his undergraduate studies, and later earned his master's degree from Springfield College. His professional life reflected his lifelong love of athletics, education, and working with young people. He began his career working for the New York Central Railroad before finding his true calling in education. He taught physical education at New Lebanon Central School District and later at Ichabod Crane Central School District, where he remained until his retirement.

Beyond the classroom, Richard's passion for athletics naturally led him to coaching. He served as an assistant basketball coach at the College of Saint Rose and spent countless years teaching, coaching, encouraging, and mentoring young people. To so many, he was simply and affectionately known as "Coach Mac," a name that followed him throughout his life and spoke to the lasting impact he had on those fortunate enough to learn from him.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict from 1952 to 1954. His commitment to his fellow veterans continued long after his military service, and he was an active member of the Peter Andrews Castleton Memorial VFW Post 7337. He was also a former member of the Castleton Boat Club.

When he was not teaching or coaching, Richard was happiest outdoors. He enjoyed nearly anything that allowed him to be outside, especially time spent in the Adirondacks. Among the places closest to his heart was his beloved Great Sacandaga Lake, where he enjoyed the beauty, peace, and simple pleasures of life on the water.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister and her husband, Patricia (Don) Misura; and his sister-in-law, Marion Shufelt.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janet (Shufelt) McPhilomy; his daughter, Julie A. (Tony Washington) McPhilomy; his brother-in-law, Robert Shufelt; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the Castleton Funeral Home, 59 Seaman Ave. Castleton, NY 12033. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Coach Mac's family from 11:00-1:00 p.m., at the funeral home.

The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Shaker Place Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for their compassionate care to Richard and their family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Coach Mac's memory to the Mohawk-Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave, Menands, NY 12204 or to The Parkinson's Foundation, 1350 Broadway, Ste 1530, New York, NY 10018.