Philip “Philly” Aiello, Jr., 35, of Holland Patent, passed away peacefully, after a brief illness on Friday, January 2, 2026.

     Philip was born on October 26, 1990, in New Hartford, the beloved son of Philip, Sr. and Wendy (Lee) Aiello. He received his education in the Holland Patent and Rome school districts. Philly enjoyed music and movies, with a special passion for sports films—especially those centered on basketball. He cherished traveling and making memories with his best friend, Joann, and he especially enjoyed attending Herkimer College basketball games. Philly will be fondly remembered for his contagious smile, infectious laugh, and the way he could instantly light up any room he entered. He was a true gift and inspiration to family and friends and an absolute joy to be around. He was of the Catholic faith.

    Philly is survived by his loving and devoted parents, Philip and Wendy Aiello of Holland Patent; his sisters and brother, Jennifer Racquet of Holland Patent and Lenny Racquet, Jr. of Floyd, Ron (Amiee) DiBrango of Marcy/Michigan, Lisa (Vinny) Adamo of Barneveld, and Michele Luizzi of Stittville/Florida; his cherished nephews and nieces, Lenny Racquet III (Katie), Austin Racquet (Casey), Cole Racquet (Sophia), Adrian DiBrango, Luca DiBrango, Eden DiBrango, Jackie Adamo, Bella Adamo, and Michael Luizzi; his aunts and uncles, including his best bud uncle Joseph Aiello of Holland Patent, Tom Aiello of New York Mills, Barb (Gary) Cingranelli of Stittville, Scott Lee of New Hartford, Chris Lee of Las Vegas, NV, and Matt (Kim) Lee of Deerfield; and his very special best friend, who has been taking loving care of him since he was five years old, Joann Barry.

    Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Philip’s Funeral Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Historic Old St. John’s Church in Utica. He will be laid to rest in the Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum at Holy Trinity Cemetery in Yorkville. Calling hours for family and friends will be held on Thursday, January 8th, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Road, North Utica.

    In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Philly’s memory are asked to consider Upstate Caring Partners, 125 Business Park Dr., Utica, NY 13502. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.