Philip Joseph Nastyn

Mr. Philip Joseph Nastyn, "Phil," age 62, passed away peacefully on Tuesday April 23, 2019 following an extended illness.

Phil was born on July 15, 1956 in Forest Hills, NY, to William and Olga Nastyn. Phil attended an all-boys Catholic school from Kindergarten to 12th grade. After graduating, he moved to Tampa, FL to attend the University of Tampa. He graduated college with a bachelor's degree in education. He then moved to Bradenton, FL where he eventually met his former wife Sonja Torsell. Sonja already had one daughter, Rhonda. Phil adopted her and raised her as his own. In August of 1994, they had another daughter, Mary Margret. Four years later, the family moved to Blairsville, GA, and have resided there ever since. Phil worked as a paraprofessional in the Fannin County School System for many years before he retired in 2018. He loved God, his family, and his students. Phil made an impact on everyone he met. He touched the lives of many students during his career, he truly loved what he did. Phil was a kind, caring, and gentle soul. With great sadness the world has lost a loving father, supportive grandfather, thoughtful brother, devoted son, and a wonderful friend.

He will be remembered by all who crossed paths with him, but especially missed by his family: daughter Mary Margret Nastyn; 4 year old granddaughter Anastasia Fletcher; 13 year old grandson Damien Dowell; 12 year old granddaughter Angel Dowell; his mother Olga Nastyn; brothers William and Daniel Nastyn; sister Ola Loyer; and numerous other cousins. Phil was preceded in death by his father William Nastyn in February 2007, and his daughter Rhonda Dowell in April 2013.

Memorial service will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday May 18, 2019 at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Blue Ridge, GA with Father Victor Morgan officiating. Preceding this service, beginning at 5 p.m. the family will receive friends.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Cochran Funeral Home of Blairsville.