Philip Anthony, the former first selectman of Griswold and longtime owner of Anthony’s Hardware, died Nov. 28 at the age of 73; no cause has been disclosed.
- Age: 73; died Nov. 28.
- Role: Griswold First Selectman (Nov. 2007
to Nov. 2013). - Local business: Co-owner/operator of Anthony20 9s Hardware since 1976.
- Key wins: Improved town finances and secured top Fitch rating; won grants for Jewett City revitalization.
- Funeral mass: Noon, Jan. 10 at St. Mary Church, Jewett City (public).
The Lede
Residents of Griswold are mourning Philip Anthony, 73, who passed away on Nov. 28. A familiar face in Jewett City and the town20 9s public life for decades, Anthony served as first selectman from November 2007 to November 2013. The family has not released a cause of death.
Fast Facts
- First selectman: 2007
to 2013, credited with improving Griswold20 9s financial standing. - Business owner: Took over Anthony20 9s Hardware with his brother Ron in 1976.
- Community focus: Helped secure grants to improve downtown Jewett City and kept local taxes low.
The Legacy
Philip Anthony20 9s public and business life left a measurable mark on Griswold. His top achievements include:
- Stabilizing the town20 9s finances and achieving Griswold20 9s highest-ever financial rating from Fitch during his tenure as first selectman.
- Securing multiple grants that funded downtown Jewett City improvements and economic revitalization projects.
- Running Anthony20 9s Hardware for decades, a neighborhood institution he and his brother Ron took over in 1976 after their father20 9s death.
Social Proof: How the Town Responded
Reaction was immediate and heartfelt. Ron Anthony, Philip20 9s brother and business partner, said neighbors have been stopping him in downtown Griswold to offer condolences, “That20 9s how much he was loved.” Ron described Philip as funny, devoted to family, and a natural conversationalist who treated customers like friends.
Since Philip20 9s death the hardware store has been closed while Ron decides whether to reopen or retire. Ron acknowledged Philip handled most of the store20 9s finances: “I never knew how much he did until he passed away.” He is seeking additional help before making a final decision on the store20 9s future.
Residents and local officials who worked with Anthony praised his practical, businesslike approach to governance and his focus on keeping tax rates low. His leadership on fiscal matters and downtown projects is cited as a turning point for the town20 9s economic health.
Services and Public Details
Philip Anthony2 s funeral mass will be held at noon on Jan. 10 at St. Mary Church, 30 North Main St., Jewett City. The service is open to the public.
For Griswold residents, the loss is both personal and civic
Image Referance: https://www.norwichbulletin.com/story/news/local/2025/12/19/former-griswold-ct-first-selectman-philip-anthony-remembered-anthonys-hardware/87817099007/