Phil James Gerety

Philip (Phil) James Gerety, age 62, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home in Tecumseh on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

Born May 8, 1962, to James and JoAnn (Phillips) Gerety, Phil grew up in Topeka and was a proud graduate of Shawnee Heights High School. From a young age, he had a passion for the outdoors and a deep-rooted connection to the land, which shaped the life he would come to live.

In his early years, Phil embraced the cowboy way of life—competing in rodeo events, working with livestock, and getting his hands dirty with honest, hard work. That same spirit stayed with him throughout his life. He found joy in physical labor and being outside, which led him to a career in grounds and facility maintenance.

Phil worked for over 15 years at the Menninger Foundation, later joining the Shawnee County Maintenance Team as a heavy equipment operator and crew leader until his well-earned retirement. Never one to sit still, Phil also kept his commercial driver’s license and took to the open road as a part-time semi-truck driver until 2022.

In 1995, Phil married Linda Kay Woodley and stepped into the role of father to Jacob Andrew Woodley. Though their marriage ended in 2000, Phil and Jake maintained a meaningful relationship through shared adventures—fishing, hunting, and celebrating holidays together, continuing to make memories as father and son.

Phil is survived by his son, Jacob Woodley of Olathe (formerly of San Diego), daughter-in-law Gina, and his two beloved grandchildren, Bruin and Leona, who brought endless joy to his later years.

He is also survived by his Aunt Mary (Gerety) Ehler and her husband B.D., as well as many cousins, lifelong friends, and his loyal dog, Roc—who is now in the loving care of the Woodley family.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, James and JoAnn, whose love and influence were ever-present in his heart.

To those who knew him, Phil may have come across as a towering and formidable figure—but that impression rarely lasted more than a moment. His warm smile, easygoing laugh, and genuine kindness left people feeling welcome, seen, and glad to have crossed paths with such a good soul.

Phil loved deeply and lived simply—riding his Harley with his friends, casting a line in the water, sitting quietly in the woods, and spending time with those he held dear. Whether it was a crisp morning hunt, a Sunday drive, or a conversation by the fire, Phil found beauty in the little things and purpose in hard work.

He will be missed more than words can express, but his memory will live on through the stories told, the lessons passed down, and the love he gave so freely.

A Celebration of Phil's Life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, June 20, 2025 at the Lake Shawnee Event Center, 3025 SE Croco Rd., Topeka, Kansas 66605 with a light luncheon to follow the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kansas National Guard Museum , Helping Hands Humane Society of Topeka or the charity of donor’s choice.

Dove Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave. is assisting the family with service arrangements.

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