Former Phillie, Villanova AD Art Mahan Dies

Former first baseman was the oldest living member of the Phillies

Art Mahan, who was the oldest living member of the Phillies, and was involved with athletics at Villanova University for more than 40 years as a student, coach and administrator, has died. He was 97.

Villanova said Thursday in a statement that Mahan died Tuesday. His funeral is scheduled for Saturday in Rydal.

"Art Mahan is one of the true icons in the storied history of Villanova Athletics," said Director of Athletics Vince Nicastro. "His dedication as a student-athlete, coach and athletics director made a lasting impact on the university and served as the foundation for the success of Villanova Athletics over the decades. By all counts, Art was a true gentleman. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mahan family."

A 1936 graduate of Nova, Mahan played first baseman for the Phillies in the 1940 season, batting .244 with a pair of home runs and 39 RBI.

He returned to Villanova in 1950 to coach the baseball team through 1972. In 1961, he was named director of athletics, a job he held until he retired in 1978.


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