Britton passed away on Thursday night in the Intensive Care Unit at the San Fernando General Hospital, where he had been admitted since last Sunday.
Britton was 57 and a father of one.
His passing has left colleagues across the media fraternity, family and friends mourning the loss of a dedicated journalist, a friend, a son, a brother, a father and grandfather.
Known for his commitment to his job, Britton continued to work despite battling a longstanding autoimmune condition.
Extending deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, his employe TTT Ltd, stated, "Phil was known not just for his technical skill, but for a tireless work ethic that saw him through decades of reporting."
He earned the admiration of many, including San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris, who said, "I admired him and despite his physical challenges, I saw him defy the odds without asking for assistance. He will be remembered as a true professional by media personnel.
His friend, attorney Kevin Ratiram, described him as a gentle soul, a kind, soft-spoken individual who was always respectful to everyone.
"Despite his disability, he always stood on his own two feet, seeking nothing from anyone. I will always be especially indebted to him for his support for the Rapidfire Kidz Foundation, highlighting our projects as much as he could."
Guardian Media's News Gathering Editor Kejan Haynes recalled that Britton was TV6's eyes and ears in south for many years and was resilient in the face of adversity.
"During the 'fake oil scandal' in 2017 while on assignment, Phil was training Leona Nicholson outside A&V Oil’s offices, glass bottles were hurled at them, smashing the back glass of Phil’s vehicle. He never stopped rolling. He was scared but never stopped. Despite challenges in his life, he never stopped."
Guardian Media senior multimedia journalist Radhica de Silva said Britton was a source of inspiration to his media colleagues in south.
"Despite his physical challenges, he always showed up for work—not bitter or moody, but cheerful, grateful, and encouraging, even while facing his own struggles."
She said Phil was always willing to share his knowledge and skills, generously guiding others and offering support whenever he could.
CCN's multimedia editor Richard Charan said many may have known his name but not his face, as for years, he stood behind the camera recording the events that shaped the nation.
Charan said, "A kind and gentle soul who treated everyone with respect and who paid particular attention to the oppressed and disenfranchised. And while there were people who profited from this media position, Phil did not, living like the subjects of his reporting, asking for nothing, trusting in his ability and his God, carrying the burden of his chronic illness without complaint, while finding the time to mentor and to teach the young men around him. His was a life to emulate."
Yvonne Webb, executive member of the Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago, described Britton as a stalwart who, through sheer determination, worked until the very end, despite his health challenges. The association expressed condolences to his family and friends.
The Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) also said Britton's contribution to his craft and to the field of journalism cannot be understated, noting that although his health began to affect him significantly in recent times,he remained diligent, disciplined, and deeply committed to the task and the field of journalism.
OWTU added, "Always looking for an opportunity to teach his craft, Phil’s passing has left a void within the media fraternity and among those he worked closely with. His absence will be keenly felt at future OWTU events, where his familiar presence behind the camera became a constant over the years."
