Philip Garber

Philip “The Captain” Garber, 63, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, following complications from heart failure.

Born on February 16, 1963, in La Mesa, California, to James and Janice Garber, Phil grew up as a proud military brat, moving with his four siblings across several states before the family settled on a farm in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania. He cherished his childhood caring for cattle and livestock, and as a gifted athlete, he excelled in football and wrestling. Phil met his wife, Melissa Portwood, through a local pool league. They married on October 29, 1994, in Frederick, Maryland, and together raised their two children, Savannah and Dale, who remained the center of his world.

A skilled mason and heavy equipment operator, Phil contributed to notable projects including the construction of Patuxent High School and work on a runway at Dulles International Airport. He later served as a custodian with Calvert County Public Schools and St. Paul United Methodist Church, where his warm smile, booming laugh, and spirited presence made him a beloved figure. Known for his larger-than-life personality and quick humor, Phil had a remarkable ability to turn strangers into friends. He was deeply involved in his children’s lives, always ready to help, advise, or encourage others. He found his greatest joy outdoors—fishing, boating, hunting, gardening, or competing in horseshoe leagues—and cherished weekends filled with karaoke, bonfires, Pittsburgh sports, and time spent at local spots with a Miller High Life in hand. He rarely went anywhere without his signature white captain’s hat, a cherished gift from his Naval officer father that became inseparable from his identity and earned him the affectionate nickname “The Captain.”

Phil is survived by his loving wife, Melissa; his daughter, Savannah (Kevin); his son, Dale; his siblings, James (Crystal), Pam, and Denise (Keith); many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews; and his beloved grandpups, Oakley and Lil Miss. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Janice; his in-laws, Dennis and Linda; his brother, Thomas; his nephew, Tyler; and his loyal dog, Bear. He will be remembered for his great sense of humor, infectious personality, and the way he made everyone around him feel like a friend.