In Memory of Father Philip Cleary

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Father Philip C. Cleary on November 3, 2024.

November 4, 2024

Dear Friends of NPH USA,

With profound grief, we bid farewell to Father Philip C. Cleary, an extraordinary human being whose life was a testament to love, dedication, and unconditional service. For decades, Father Phil/Padre Felipe gave his heart and spirit to the children, and young people of NPH, offering them not just a home, but hope and purpose.

The second of seven children, Father Phil Cleary was raised in Chicago and received numerous educational awards. As a young seminarian, he worked as a counselor for a Chicago orphanage and as a dorm director at a home for delinquent and troubled youth. He graduated from Loyola University and the Archdiocesan seminary with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in theology.

Following his ordination in 1979, Father Phil served in two Chicago parishes. He was elected to serve as President of the Association of Priests, and later was on the Board of Directors of the National Federation of Priests’ Councils. It was while serving in this capacity that Father Phil learned of Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH), Spanish for “Our Little Brothers and Sisters”, and the mission of Father William B. Wasson. He volunteered to work at the main home for a summer, however, upon completing his three-month term, he solicited and received permission to continue serving NPH. That decision grew into a lifetime commitment to the children of NPH.

Father Phil served for many years as National Director of NPH Mexico, and then as Executive Director of NPH International. He resided at the main home of NPH Mexico in Miacatlán, Morelos, Mexico.

In recognition of his service to the children of NPH, he was honored with the Mercy Mission Award given annually by Chicago priests for Outstanding Work with Troubled Youth, and the Community Service Award from the mayor of the city of Cuernavaca, Mexico.

Father Phil was more than a spiritual guide to those around him; he was a constant source of strength and a father figure to countless children and young people who needed support and love. His selfless delivery left an indelible mark on each of them, who saw in him an example of goodness and a role model. His words of encouragement, life advice, and tireless commitment to those who needed it most will always be remembered.

Those of us who had the honor of knowing Father Phil know that his departure leaves a huge void, but it also leaves us a legacy full of love and hope. Let’s follow his example, caring for and supporting the little ones, as he did, with all our hearts.

Rest in peace Father Phil, with the certainty that your light and spirit continue to live on in each of the pequeños (“little ones”) you loved so much. Your memory will live forever in the global family of NPH, and your legacy will be a source of inspiration for generations to come.

With warm regards,
NPH USA

Services

  • A Mass was held on Monday, November 4, 2024, at NPH Mexico in Miacatlán.
  • Funeral services took place on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at St. Zachary Parish, 567 West Algonquin Road in Des Plaines, IL.
    A recording of the Funeral Mass celebrated by Bishop Ronald Hicks can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFehoBSsjv8
    A private interment took place at All Saints Catholic Cemetery in Des Plaines.
  • NPH USA hosted a virtual Celebration of Life on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 2 p.m. CST. Click here to view the recording.

Please click here if you would like to make a donation in honor of Father Phil.