John Edward Phillips, Jr passed away April 9, 2018, at his home in College Grove, Tennessee. He was surrounded by his family as he met his Savior in heaven. John was born in Harriman, Tennessee, on June 13, 1940. He attended South Harriman High School. He served in the United States Navy from 1958-1961 on board the USS Hitchiti. After his time of service, he lived in Chicago where he worked on the floor at the stock exchange and in San Francisco, where he met his wife Kathy-they married September 12, 1968. They have lived in Greeneville, TN; Albion, IL; Mexico, MO; and Ringgold, GA. He has always been active in the churches they have attended, serving as deacon and in different ministries.
John was an avid sports fan and enjoyed playing golf. He played basketball and football in high school. He was able to attend the Super Bowl, World Series, Stanley Cup, NBA Championship game and Indianapolis 500. He and Kathy could often be found at their local high school basketball or football games.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John Ed and Dora Phillips, and a brother, Jack Phillips. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kathy; son, John, of Atlanta, GA; daughter Tricia (David) Jones of College Grove, TN; grandchildren Cole and Hattie Jones; sister Patsy (Drew) Wells of Greeneville, TN; brothers Joe (Joann) Phillips of Jonesborough, TN and Paul Phillips of Greeneville, TN.
Visitation will be held Saturday, April 21, at Triune Baptist Church in Arrington, TN from 9-11. A Celebration of Life service will be held immediately following at 11:00 am. There will be a lunch provided after. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Triune Baptist Church Building Fund.
