Philip Richard Machale
Philip Richard Machale , age 81 of Galax, Virginia, passed away on Sunday, July 26th.
Philip is an American actor and author best known for his roles in television, films and hundreds of commercials. He served as spokesperson for the Hardees Restaurant chain for 8 years. The character he portrayed was the “Road Runner” race car driver and among his many acting roles, he was Tony Lord in the tv series, One Life to Live.
Philip was preceded in death by his parents: Virginia Machale (originally from Massachusetts) and Theodore Machale (originally from Montana).
Surviving are his children: Whalen Machale (Samatha) and Tristan Machale both of California, and Rian Davis (Jason) of Georgia. Three grandchildren, Brodie, Christian, and Daphney.
Philip was born in Washington, D.C. Spent his elementary and teenage years in Wyoming and Montana. His family moved back to the east coast where he graduated from Walter Johnson Senior High School in Maryland. Philip received numerous trophies for his outstanding athletic performance in football, baseball and wrestling and was recognized often for his academic achievements. He was member of the National Honor Society and served in leadership roles in high school and college.
He graduated from Collby College. He began his undergraduate work at American University in Washington, D.C. where he has maintained life-long friendships with his ATO Fraternity House brothers.
Philip joined the Marine Corps as an officer and was immediately sent to Vietnam where he earned a Purple Heart. He retired from duty in 1971 as a Captain.
He received master’s degrees from Harvard University, University of Southern California and the Centre for the Analysis of Conflict, the University of London.
Philip loved writing novels, plays and movie scripts when he was not acting. He traveled the world, spending two years in China as a teacher. Climbed every major mountain around the globe and loved good food. He cherished his close friendships and often expressed his gratitude for his longtime friends, John Lenoir, Esq. and Dr. Ann Shortt.
A graveside service with military honors will be held at National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico, 18424 Joplin Rd, Triangle, VA 22172, on Friday, August 14, 2026 at 2:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.
