Phillip Joseph Selaty's Obituary
Phillip Joseph Selaty - February 25, 1951 to March 30, 2024
Phillip passed away at his home while doing what he loved the best, decorating a cake for his family to share for the Easter holiday. Phillip was retired from decades of service as a Family Independence Specialist at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Through his career, he became an advocate for families and children from all walks of life. He loved spending time with family and friends, cooking, baking, karaoke, traveling the world, and collecting antiques. He enjoyed sharing his passions, including his extensive knowledge of jewelry, automobiles, anthropology, and Old Hollywood. Always ready to belt a showtune or lead you in a dance at a moment’s notice, he was known affectionately to those closest to him as “Uncle Floppy.” His unique and whimsical persona allowed him to make friends everywhere he went.
He was predeceased by his life partner Charles Frazho, his late parents Rose and George Selaty, and his late siblings George (Leesa), Lawrence, and Kenneth Selaty.
He is survived by his siblings Carolyn Kowalski, Gail Selaty, Mary Ann Jeno (Michael) and Johnny Selaty. He was a beloved figure in the lives of his nieces and nephews across multiple generations. Later in life, he found joy in spending his time with Alyse (Robert) Campion, Caitlin Jeno (Kevin Rosenbrook), and Kenneth B. Selaty. He would come to be cherished by his great nieces and great nephews.
In his final act, Uncle Floppy could be found having dinner dates, game nights, and piano sing-a-longs with Mariella and Leo Campion.
“The hero is one who kindles a great light in the world, who sets up blazing torches in the dark streets of life for men to see by. The saint is the man who walks through the dark paths of the world, himself a light.”
―Felix Adler
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the following charities which aligned with Phillip’s life and passions:
Ruth Ellis Center – which works to create a supportive environment and community with LGBTQ+ young people.
Ruth Ellis Center Inc - Ruth Ellis Center https://www.ruthelliscenter.org/
Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit – which inspires and empowers youth to be leaders and life-long learners.
Donate to MOSAIC Youth Theater of Detroit https://mosaicdetroit.org/
Visitation will be held Saturday, April 6th from 1pm – 8pm at Rudy Funeral Home, 25650 Van Dyke, in Center Line. Funeral service Monday, April 8th at 11am at the funeral home. Burial at St. Clement Cemetery in Center Line. Please visit www.rudyfuneral.com to share a memory or light a candle.
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