I was very saddened to learn of Philip’s passing and would like to express my deepest condolences to his family.
The news has prompted a lot of reminiscing about those days in Richmond among those of us still working either for Scrip or other parts of the former PJB business that are now part of Norstella.
Outside of immediate family, there are usually only a handful people to have an important influence on the trajectory of one’s life and career. In my case, I consider Philip one of those people. I’d like to express my appreciation for the opportunities both he and PJB provided, not only to develop skills and knowledge in new areas, but also for the personal and professional chance of a move to Tokyo. For his support, understanding and kindness during those relocation periods (not without its clear-eyed business expectations, of course) I will always be grateful, and for the course of life and family that ultimately grew out of it.
While many shared memories of the Richmond PJB era seem to revolve around the best pubs in the area (!), others randomly come to mind: Philip giving a luxury lift to the office to Amanda Maxwell and myself as we happened to be walking together along Petersham Rd. one morning; passing Philip jogging in Richmond Park as I drove home one day; his regular calls on the Scrip editorial office to see how things were progressing; the company Christmas parties; and his trips to Japan, during which he was always entertaining company. These are just small snapshots of a life well-lived.
Many condolences again to the Brown family on your loss.
Ian Haydock