Marlborough – Louis P. (“Phil”) (“Snookie”) Anastas passed away peacefully with his family beside him on July 1, 2023, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Worcester, MA, after a period of declining health.
Louis was born on November 7, 1936, in Hudson, MA, to his late parents George Anastas, Jr., and Anna (Matoscusa), and resided in Marlboro nearly all of his life.
Louis leaves his wife of 67 years Cynthia (Benoit) Anastas of Marlboro, MA; his son David Anastas and his wife Donna of Uxbridge, MA; his sister Kathleen (Anastas) Marcou of Hudson, MA; his brothers Robert Anastas of York Beach, ME, and George Anastas and his wife Annabelle of Westminster, MA; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents George Anastas, Jr., and Anna (Matoscusa).
Louis graduated from Hudson High School where he was a member of the 1952 undefeated football team. He excelled in hockey and baseball, and is a member of the HHS Athletic Hall of Fame.
Louis graduated from Worcester State Teachers College with his Masters in Education, and went on to have a career as an educator and administrator with the Northborough Public Schools. Within the Northborough Public Schools system, he was a principal of the Lincoln Street Elementary School. From there, he moved on to become principal of Northboro (Melican) Middle school, and later moved into the position of principal of Proctor Elementary School through to his retirement in 1997.
Phil was passionate about his students, and he always placed them first in every aspect of their education. Nothing was more important than the needs of his students. He loved his teachers. He was tough, but fair, and would push them in order to help them to be the very best they could be. He took great joy in watching his students and faculty excel and grow. Louis was also an adjunct professor at Regis College in 1972.
He lived out his retirement happily with his wife Cynthia, and enjoyed gardening, reading, writing, and all sports. Trips to The NCAA College Hockey Frozen Four each year, and attending Super Bowl XXXI in New Orleans with his son David were highlights. His stories about family and life were infectious. He cherished and loved Cynthia – An amazing, true love story from the first grade on. He loved his daughter-in-law Donna so very much, and he would light the room whenever she walked in. He absolutely adored watching his nieces and nephews play sports, act in plays, as well as any other activities they participated in. They gave him great joy.
Declining health took its toll on Louis over the years, but he took it all in stride, and he never, ever complained. He said, “I just roll with punches,” and he sure did. We will miss his laugh, his smile, and his incredible sense of humor. He was a joy to be around. Think of him now, and then and smile.
As per Louis’ wishes, services will be private.
In Lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in Louis’ memory to the American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75231 (https://www.heart.org/donate).
Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
