Philip J. Priolo, a summer resident of East Hampton who worked as a trainer of racehorses, died at home with his family in Howard Beach, Queens, on Dec. 5. He was 81 and had complications from prostate cancer.
Mr. Priolo was born in Brooklyn on Nov. 29, 1938, to James Priolo and the former Margaret Fudge. He grew up in Brooklyn, Queens, and East Hampton, and became a builder of houses. When he was in his 50s he made a career change, taking up the training of racehorses.
In September of 1959 he married Dolores Genovese, who survives. The couple had three sons, who also survive. They are James Priolo of Manhattan, Philip Priolo of Westbury, and Steven Priolo of Queens.
In addition to training horses, Mr. Priolo enjoyed spending time with his family and meticulously maintaining his houses, inside and out. He and Ms. Priolo lived on Cove Hollow Road for 12 years before returning to Howard Beach in 2012 to be closer to old friends and family.
In addition to his wife and sons, Mr. Priolo is survived by a sister, Lorraine Perillo of West Babylon, three grandchildren, and his beloved Maltese poodle, Noel.
A funeral service was held on Dec. 9 at St. Helen Catholic Church in Howard Beach. Mr. Priolo was cremated. The family has suggested memorial donations to Hospice of New York, 45-18 Court Square, Suite 500, Long Island City 11101, or online at hospiceny.com.
