Phillip Maggio

Coach Maggio,
He was a great man who taught boys to be men. His influence was on generations of kids, myself included. Coach got me started as a student trainer and that led me to a 45-year career in Sports Medicine. He was an original, what you saw is what you got; tough, driven, such a wonderful guy. He will be missed but remembered by all the lives he affected. God Bless you Sir!😥❤️😌🏈💖

Sweet Maggio family – our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.  

To the Maggio Family, our hearts are heavy for your loss. We have lost a great man, we know he was a great husband,dad, grandfather,coach and friend. If I may quote a verse,”Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, lean not on your own understanding, always acknowledge him and will direct your path “ God Bless the Maggio Family. Love Darlee Nelson and Family 🙏🏽❤️

I went to Washington Junior High and Thomas Jefferson High School with Phillip and Sylvia.  And who would have thought after all those years I would marry into the family by marrying Phillip’s cousin. That was 47 years ago.  Many fond memories of spending time together at Plant football games and later after the family moved to Gainesville.  We started traveling to Gator Football games.  There were graduations and weddings and just being together as one big happy family.  Many stories to remember with love and joy.  You will be deeply missed by all those whose life you touched.  Rest in Peace.

Aida and Michael 

Phillip James “Phil” Maggio, beloved husband, father, coach, and mentor, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and football. Born in Tampa, Florida on November 1, 1944, Phil’s life was defined by his deep love for the game and even greater love for the people whose lives he touched.
A proud graduate of Tampa’s Jefferson High School in 1962, Phil excelled on the gridiron as a standout lineman before continuing his playing career with the University of Florida from 1964 to 1966. He earned his degree in Physical Education in 1966, setting the stage for a lifelong dedication to teaching, coaching, and inspiring young men through the game he loved.
For nearly 15 years, Phil taught and coached in the Hillsborough County school system, with his greatest impact at Plant High School. As defensive coordinator, he helped lead the Panthers to an impressive 66-14-1 record during his tenure, building a reputation not only for his sharp football mind but also for the care and discipline he instilled in his players. In March of 1980, he returned to his alma mater, joining the University of Florida football staff as an offensive line coach. His journey from player to coach at Florida was the realization of a dream, a full-circle moment that embodied his lifelong devotion to the Gators.
Phil was not only a coach on the field but also a teacher of life’s lessons beyond it. He believed in hard work, accountability, and the importance of team above self. His former players and colleagues will remember him not just for his strategies and victories, but for his encouragement, mentorship, and unwavering belief in their potential.
Above all, Phil cherished his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Sylvia DeLaTorre of Tampa, on June 5, 1963. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, raising two children, Phillip “P.J.” and Tracy, who were his greatest pride and joy.
Phil’s legacy endures in the countless young men he coached, the lessons he passed on, and the love he poured into his family. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud father, a loyal friend, and a coach whose influence reached far beyond the football field.
He is survived by his loving wife Sylvia, his children P.J. and Tracy, and all those who had the privilege of being guided by his steady hand and generous heart.
Coach Phil Maggio’s impact will continue to echo in locker rooms, classrooms, and family circles for generations to come. His life was a game well played, a race well run, and a victory in every sense.