Letter: Honoring A True Needham Hero

The drive to rebuild the Playground received an extraordinary boost from the family of a man that has been a model of civic duty for decades. Thanks to made by the Robey/Connelly family, students of Newman, and all the children of Needham, will enjoy countless hours of play at the newly named Phillip V. Robey playground.

Needham’s hero, Phil Robey, has lived in Needham all of his 65 years, and has committed countless hours of time and energy to the Needham community. His contributions, just to name a few, include: Over 18 years as elected Commissioner of Parks & Recreation including 13 years as chairman, over 20 years as board member at The Charles River Center/former Chariman, 30 plus years coaching Needham Little League, 10 plus years as NLL President, 26 plus years Needham Exchange Club member/former President and 26 years as Town Meeting member.

By example, Phil Robey has created a legacy of civic duty in the true sense of the word. Beyond his work at the Office of Parks and Recreation and Town Meeting, Phil’s coaching and mentoring of scores of Needham boys has inspired a new generation of Needham men—willing to contribute their own time and effort in the hopes that they too can make a difference in the lives of others, both young and old. 

Thank you to the Robey/Connelly family for helping ensure that the children of Needham receive a beautiful, accessible fun and safe place to play. More importantly, thank you for providing all of us with an enduring reminder that, with heart and unyielding dedication, one person can make a remarkable impact on the lives of many.

A Cause For Play/Support the Newman Playground Task Force