Philip Larry Alter

Philip Larry Alter, 77, of Bluffton, SC, passed away on April 1, 2026, surrounded by friends while doing exactly what he loved. Born on April 18, 1948, in Philadelphia, PA, Phil was the son of the late Ruth Price Alter and Harry Alter.

A 1966 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School in Levittown, PA, Phil served his country in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1972 during the Vietnam War. Following his service, he enjoyed a distinguished 27-year career as a computer programmer for IBM.

In retirement, Phil was a fixture of the Sun City Hilton Head Billiards Club and found great joy riding his motorcycle with his wife, Natalie, as his passenger. Known for his sharp, dark sense of humor and his technical expertise, Phil was a man who expressed his love through dedicated action—whether troubleshooting a family member’s computer or meticulously planning vacations for his loved ones.

He is survived by his dedicated wife of 55 years, Natalie Alter; his son, Richard Rice (Larissa); his daughter, Michele Burkhammer; grandchildren, Lee, Christina, Elaine, and Gavin; great-grandchildren, Bella, Sophie, and June; and siblings, Allan Alter (Delia) and Sheryl Alter, and his constant companion, Shelly.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Phil’s name to Pruitt Health Hospice (Okatie, SC) or to the Warrior Canine Connection (Boyds, MD), which provides service dogs to disabled veterans at no cost.