Folsom Funeral Service

Phinney, Chandler D. Jr.

Phinney, Chandler cropped

Chandler Dotton Phinney Jr., a resident of Norwood, died Wednesday, August 9, 2017 at the Norwood Hospital.  He was 88.  Sonny was born November 22, 1928 in Milton, Massachusetts, the only son of Chandler D. Sr., and Mary (Will) Phinney, and grew up in Plymouth.  He earned his Master’s degree in Education from Boston University and worked as a Physical Education Instructor at the High SChool for the Town of Walpole until his retirement in 1986.  Sonny was a World War Two Army Veteran, having serve with the occupational forces at the end of the War.  His passion in life however, was golf.  Sonny was a member of the Sharon Country Club and was a Professional Golf Instructor at the Easton Country Club where he taught golfers for 16 years.  He was also a member of the Norwood Elks.  Sonny is survived by his two sons, Chandler D. Phinney III of Plymouth, and Timothy J. Phinney of Norwood; a grandson, Blair Phinney; and his longtime partner and friend, Patty Spaulding of Sharon.  He was the brother of the late Virginia Bramhall and the late Priscilla Besegai.  Visiting hours will be held Monday, August 14th from 5 to 8 pm at the Folsom Funeral Home, 649 High St., Westwood, MA .  Services and interment will be private.

Guestbook Entries

  1. F.Whitney Burke
    August 12th, 2017 | 8:58 am

    A wonderful mentor and teacher
    R.I.P Sir ⛳️

  2. Lenny Lima
    August 13th, 2017 | 8:48 am

    Sorry to hear about Chan. I’ll always remember seeing him at ECC and how pleasant he was. He was a great guy and was not afraid to pass on his golf knowledge or give advice to anyone who was having problems with their golf swing. R.I.P. Chan. You will be missed.

  3. Don Light
    August 13th, 2017 | 1:58 pm

    I am very sorry to hear of Chan’s passing. I was one of the very lucky ones to have played basketball for him at Walpole High Schooll and be on the State Championship team in 1960. I have never forgotten his sage basketball advice. Now whenever I play basketball with my my son or grandson I always think of him and his advice and try to pass that along. Seeing and talking with him at our 50th high school reunion was another treat. I know I am not alone in these sentiments. His memory lives on!

  4. Neil McBride
    August 13th, 2017 | 9:07 pm

    a great teacher, always willing to help with your game.I considered him a good friend of my wifes and myself while we were at Easton Country club for almost 20 yrs.God Bless Chan.

  5. Rob Osterhout
    August 14th, 2017 | 8:53 am

    A wonderful teacher, coach,mentor,and a friend for over sixty years. I was fortunate enough to have played for him on two state championship teams (one in golf and one in basketball). His inspired leadership was key to both. He had a wonderful sense of humor, an infectious laugh, and was always ready to suggest just a slight change in your grip. He was generous with his time and honored us returning for our 50th reunion. Condolences to his family. Rest in Peace.

  6. David and Dawn Weber
    August 15th, 2017 | 6:31 pm

    We were fortunate to have met Chan at ECC over 20 years ago. First as an instructor then as a playing partner and finally as a special friend.

    We will remember his wonderful approach to the game, his encouragement, his sense of humor and his great smile.

    Chan, we will think of you often and miss you always.

  7. Dr. Hoagland Rosania
    August 25th, 2017 | 12:14 pm

    We were out of town and so sorry to hear about Chan’s passing. Our sincere condolences to his family and Patti. I took a series of golf lessons with Chan and he really help me appreciate the game. He was a great guy and I appreciated the privilege of helping him with his orthopedic concerns. Pat and I enjoyed visiting with him and Patti at the villages. I always think of him when I play golf. May he rest in peace.
    Sincerely, Hoagie

  8. ARTHUR R. SMALL
    January 9th, 2019 | 3:59 pm

    I REMEMBER A CHAN PHINNEY AT HYDE PARK HIGH SCHOOL ALTHOUGH I AM SURE HE DID NOT KNOW ME. I was graduated in 1947.

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Folsom Funeral Service

Folsom Funeral Service