Philip Giordano, a well-known figure in Stamford, Connecticut, passed away on December 13, 2024, at the age of 97. His death marks the loss of a dedicated environmental advocate and a long-time public servant who left a lasting impact on his community. Known for his efforts to protect Stamford’s green spaces, Giordano was a former member of the Stamford Board of Representatives and a strong supporter of veterans. His legacy is forever tied to the Hart Magnet Elementary School’s playground, which stands as a testament to his commitment to his neighborhood and city.
Giordano’s journey in public service began in the mid-1990s when he was in his late 60s. He made a pivotal decision to join the Board of Representatives with a clear mission: to save the Hart playground from being swallowed up by an expansion plan for the Hart Magnet Elementary School. Living right across the street from the park, he saw firsthand the potential loss of an important public space that many in his community cherished. His efforts, along with the support of others, including future governor Dannel P. Malloy, led to a successful plan to expand the school southward, preserving the beloved park for generations to come.
As a representative, Giordano was a staunch advocate for the preservation of Stamford’s natural resources. Whether it was organizing efforts to protect parks or ensuring that green spaces were maintained, he was always looking for ways to improve the city’s environment. Even after his time on the Board of Representatives, Giordano’s commitment to preserving nature never wavered. He could often be seen picking up trash around local parks, including Cummings Park, where he had spent many peaceful moments with his late wife, Marion. Their shared love for nature was something he held dear throughout his life, and after her passing, he continued to care for the tree they had enjoyed picnicking under, even taking steps to prevent it from being cut down.
Giordano’s personal life and work as a public servant were deeply intertwined. He didn’t just talk about his passion for the environment—he lived it. His contributions went beyond the Board of Representatives. He served as a custodian for the Stamford school system, worked as a firefighter, and volunteered his time to veteran causes. His work ethic and commitment to the community were unquestionable, and he always found ways to give back. It was this unwavering dedication that made Giordano a beloved figure in the city, with many remembering him not just for his political work but for his deep personal involvement in improving Stamford.
In addition to his environmental work, Giordano was known for his support of veterans, particularly through the program that provided free beach passes to active and retired service members. His dedication to honoring those who served in the military reflected his deep sense of civic duty. This program became another hallmark of his long tenure in public service and further solidified his reputation as a compassionate leader.
Giordano’s legacy is also marked by the relationships he built with those around him. Board of Representatives member Sean Boeger, D-15, fondly recalled Giordano’s dedication to keeping local parks clean and his ability to maintain a calm and friendly approach to politics. Boeger remembered how Giordano would often bring up the importance of maintaining friendly relationships within government, a philosophy Boeger has tried to uphold during his own time on the Board. Giordano's advice about keeping politics amicable and civil, rather than allowing bitterness to sour working relationships, was something he believed strongly in, and it had a lasting impact on those who worked with him.
Giordano’s influence extended beyond the political realm. Mavina Moore Sr., D-10, who served alongside Giordano on the Board of Representatives, considered him a mentor. When she joined the Board in 2013, Giordano took her under his wing, guiding her through the ins and outs of District 10. Moore fondly remembered how Giordano introduced her to local groups, such as the Hubbard Heights Association, which represented a large portion of the district’s voters. His willingness to share his knowledge and experience made her transition to the Board smoother, and she appreciated his continued support even after he left public office.
But it wasn’t just politics that Giordano talked about. Moore recalled how Giordano would often speak of his wife, Marion, with deep love and admiration. Even in his final months, when Giordano’s health was failing, he would reminisce about his late wife, something that seemed to be a constant thread in his conversations. He cherished her memory deeply, and it was clear to those around him just how much she meant to him.
Philip Giordano’s death leaves a void in Stamford, but his contributions to the community will not be forgotten. His commitment to preserving the environment, supporting veterans, and maintaining a spirit of camaraderie in government will continue to inspire future generations of public servants. Giordano’s children, Richard J. Giordano and Joan Winter, along with his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, carry forward his legacy of service and dedication.
A Mass in Giordano’s honor was held on December 20, 2024, at the Basilica of St. John the Evangelist in Stamford, with burial following at St. John Cemetery in Darien. The city of Stamford, and especially District 10, will continue to benefit from his tireless efforts to make their community a better place. His memory will live on through the parks he fought to preserve, the veterans he helped, and the relationships he built throughout his life. Giordano's work, driven by a deep love for his city and its people, will remain a guiding light for all who follow in his footsteps.
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