Phillip L. “Phil” French, 79, a lifelong resident of Tewksbury, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and longtime local businessman, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 19, 2026, with his family by his side.
Phil was the beloved husband of Kathleen A. “Kathy” (Murphy) French, his wife of nearly 60 years. Together, they built a life centered on family, friendship, and the community they called home.
Born in Lowell on July 13, 1947, Phil was the son of the late Allyn M. French and the late Edna L. (Ferrand) French, affectionately known as “The Cake Lady.”
Phil attended Tewksbury schools and graduated from Tewksbury Memorial High School in 1965. Following graduation, he attended the Culinary Institute of America, graduating in 1967. Later that year, he married the love of his life, Kathleen Ann Murphy.
A familiar face to generations of Tewksbury residents, Phil devoted his professional life to the restaurant and hospitality business. In 1968, he purchased his first restaurant, The Triangle Restaurant, in Groveland, Massachusetts. In 1973, he opened the Yellow Submarine on Main Street in Tewksbury, across from the former Tremblay’s Liquor Store. After many successful years, he relocated the business down the road and renamed it French’s Subs & Seafoods, which became a well-known and beloved part of the Tewksbury community. In 1980, Phil expanded his business interests with the operation of the former Wamesit Bowling Alley & Lounge, once located where Home Depot stands today.
Phil’s contributions to Tewksbury extended well beyond his businesses. He was a longtime board member, advocate, and supporter of the Tewksbury Redmen Football Club and Tewksbury Pop Warner Youth Football Program, a former member of the Tewksbury Board of Health, and a co-founder of Tewksbury Cares. His dedication to his hometown and the people in it left a lasting impression on the community he loved.
Known throughout Tewksbury for his quick wit, unmistakable personality, and gift for friendship, Phil was someone who seemed to know everyone — and everyone knew Phil. He enjoyed playing cards, sharing laughs, and spending time with family and friends, especially at the Jade East. Whether through his businesses, his community involvement, or simply a conversation among friends, Phil had a way of making himself memorable.
An accomplished duckpin bowler, Phil also competed on the Duck Pin Pro Tour while operating Wamesit Lanes.
Above all, Phil treasured his family. In addition to his beloved wife, Kathy, he is survived by his children, David French and his wife Janet, Daniel French, Brian French and his wife Kristen, and Aimee Golen and her husband Chad; his nine grandchildren, Brennan, Allyn, Jack, Graeme, Anthony, Vanessa, Owen, Shane, and Kali; and his two great-granddaughters, Ella and Sophia. He is also survived by his brother, Randall J. French and his wife Kelly; his sister, Pris A. Farley and her husband David; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Phil will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his quick wit, the friendships he cultivated, and the lasting mark he left on the town he proudly called home.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, October 25, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee Street, Tewksbury. Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 26, at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment of his ashes will take place at a later date at Lowell Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Phil’s memory may be made to the Redmen Football Club, 461 Main Street, Tewksbury, MA 01876.