Phillip Charles Hitch

Phillip Charles Hitch departed this life on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Tidal Health in Salisbury, Maryland.

Phillip’s “Love Legacy” is one of a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and pillar of quiet strength. Affectionately known as “Uncle Phil” or “Poppa Phil”—whether you were natural family or not—he was sought out for his steady wisdom, calm presence, and laser‑focused advice. And if you chose not to follow that advice, he would simply sigh and say, “Mmm! You can suit yourself.”

Born October 28, 1952, in Allen, Maryland, to the late Leithan M. Hitch Sr. and Blanche B. (Banks) Hitch, Phillip was one of thirteen children. At a young age, he became a member of Friendship United Methodist Church in Allen, MD.

Phillip attended Bennett Senior High School, where he excelled in multiple sports—pole vault, long jump, and especially wrestling, where he broke and held several records.

In 1969, at just seventeen, Phillip met the love of his life, Marian Jones. Their love carried its own anthem, “Me and Mrs. Jones,” a song that became a testimony of how they stewarded their 51‑year marriage with loyalty, endurance, and grace.

After graduating high school, Phillip enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served honorably and was discharged as a Corporal. Upon returning home, he married Marian, started a family, and together they built their first home.

Phillip went on to have a long and respected career with the Maryland Department of Corrections, retiring as a Lieutenant after more than 25 years of service. He was known for his natural ability to train, cultivate, and redirect people’s strengths, building up both new recruits and seasoned officers. Leading by example, Phillip accepted nothing less than what he called “your personal best.”

A man of discipline and passion, Phillip practiced martial arts at Mitchell’s Martial Arts, earning his Black Belt in Kempo Karate and later instructing others. He also had the pleasure of meeting martial artist and actor Jeff Speakman.

Phillip loved music deeply. He played drums and sang in several groups, most notably the gospel ensemble formerly known as Dorothy Dickerson and The Floods of Joy. They toured the DMV area, performing alongside artists such as Willie Neal Johnson & The Gospel Keynotes and The Five Blind Boys, and recorded two albums.

Family, hard work, patience, wisdom, and integrity are the qualities that flood the memories of all who encountered Phillip. He believed in giving generously and giving your best. He believed family was a gift never to be taken for granted. He believed in justice, in the value of every life, and in the possibility of change. If young people needed help and he could help, he did—because Poppa Phil believed every young person deserved a solid start.

Phillip leaves to cherish his legacy, his devoted wife, Marian Hitch, Salisbury, MD, children: Dr. Natausha Leonard, Salisbury, MD, Phillip Hitch Jr., Salisbury, MD, Brandon Hitch, New Jersey
godson, Ian Murry, Bowie, MD, grandchildren: Jordan Mills (Gabreille), Corian Mills, Josarah Liles‑Hitch, Jocelyn Frantum (Devin), Joshua Liles‑Winder, great‑grandchildren: Matteo Mills, Lorenzo Mills, Mason Frantum, sisters: Rosalee Mills, Anna (William) Vance, Blanche Savage, Lula Bizell, Shyrleen (Stephen) Collier, Loretta Hitch and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by: sister, Vernetta Mae Hitch, brother, Leithan M. Hitch Jr. sister, Elaine Mason, and brother, Columbus Hitch.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Phillip Charles Hitch, please visit our floral store.