Willie Ross Phillips

October 26, 1926 – February 3, 2026

Willie Ross Phillips, a devoted father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather, veteran, and cherished friend to all, passed away peacefully at the age of 99. Willie was born on October 26, 1926, in Wartrace, Tennessee, to the late Reverend Willie Lee Phillips and Rosie Lee Phillips. He accepted Christ into his life at an early age and was a standout athlete in his youth. Willie was a basketball star at Kings High School, where he was known as much for his skill on the court as for his reputation as a "great friend to all."

Following graduation, he honorably served his country in the United States Navy. Upon being honorably discharged, Willie met the love of his life, Geneva Scott. The two of them were dedicated members of the Bethel AME Church, Lebanon, Ohio. They were wed on November 25, 1949, and had a beautiful life together while raising two children David and Denita. The marriage spanned over half a century until Geneva's homegoing in 2007. For the past 19 years Willie lived with his daughter and son-in law in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where they enjoyed countless adventures, laughs, and memories together.

Willie was a man of dedicated service and work ethic. He worked for LCI and retired from BP after 30 years of loyal employment. In his later years, he became a fixture at the family store, Classy Threads, where he served as the "Head of Security" and a one- man welcoming committee. He never met a stranger and always brought a smile to customers' faces. To his family, he was their biggest cheerleader and a constant source of encouragement.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wille and Rosie Lee; beloved wife, Geneva; his son, David, and his sister Lois (Dolly) D. Durham. His legacy of love lives on through his daughter, Denita Daniels (Raymond); his sisters, Earnestine and Edna; and his adored grandchildren, Dr. Renita Daniels, Tyrone Phillips, Raymond Lynch, Tramine and La Dirus (Duke) Williams, and Brice. Great grandchildren Renia (Raymond's daughter) and Tyrone Phillips Jr., Ty 'Yania, Zavier, and Naysa (Tyrone children). He also leaves behind a host of extended family, friends, and customers whose lives were brightened by his presence. He is survived by many extended family members, friends, and customers whose lives were enriched through his warmth and companionship.

Visitation, Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM with a memorial service at 11:00 AM, all at the Oswald-Hoskins Funeral Home, Lebanon. Inurnment will follow in Lebanon Cemetery.