Philip H. McCorkle

On July 2, 2019, Philip Hunter McCorkle, Jr., of Ada, Michigan passed away peacefully at home at the age of 74. He entered into heaven with his family at his side, surrounding him with comfort and love, as he ended a courageous battle following a long illness. 

He is survived by his devoted wife, Gayle Campbell McCorkle, his two sons Philip III and his wife Natalie, with grandsons Jack and Michael, and Matthew all of Ada, Michigan.  He is also survived by his brother, Cavert McCorkle of Spartanburg, South Carolina and his partner Charles Burns.  He was extremely proud of all of them, and loved each dearly.  Phil was preceded in death by his parents, Colonel Philip H. and Mary S. McCorkle.

He enjoyed growing up and living throughout the world in Europe and Asia, and he served in Vietnam as a First Lieutenant in the United Sates Army.  As a graduate of Wake Forest University and The George Washington University, Phil dedicated his professional career to health care administration, primarily in Grand Rapids since 1975.  He held many executive positions at Butterworth Hospital, DeVos Children’s Hospital and Spectrum Health for over twenty-five years.  Phil was President and CEO of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s for 13 years and   also served at Trinity Health in Livonia as the Executive Sponsor for System Philanthropic Strategies for 4 years. Over the course of nearly 44 years, Phil faithfully served on a significant number of community boards and organizations within the Grand Rapids community and has been recognized with distinction for his achievements and contributions.  He was most proud to have received the Benemerenti Papal Medal in the highest rank from Bishop Walter Hurley. 

In 2003, Phil was blessed with the opportunity to meet Pope John Paul II at the Vatican, where the Holy Father blessed the cross that is positioned on top of the Lacks Cancer Center.  These two events were life-changing for Phil.  Phil is the author of On the Wings of Angels, an expression of gratitude to the many individuals who shared his mission and vision for Saint Mary’s and Trinity Health.

Family will greet friends at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home on Cascade Road from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on July 10, 2019.  A Mass of Christian Burial Celebrating Christ in the life of Philip H.  McCorkle, Jr. will be held on July 11, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Episcopal Church with The Rev. Susan York officiating.  Following the service, interment will be in the columbarium located at the church.  In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the Saint Mary’s Foundation or Hospice of Michigan.

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