John Edmond Phillips

Smithville – John Edmond Phillips, 96, died on Friday, April 15, 2016, at the Pioneer Medical Center in Aberdeen. Born on January 5, 1920, in Itawamba County, he was the son of Elbern Doda and Laia Elliott Phillips.

Growing up in the Itawamba County area, he was a graduate of Tremont High School. He joined the Navy at an early age, serving in World War II. He married Marlin Pierce Phillips on April 8, 1942. John was very proud veteran. He loved the outdoors especially fishing and hunting with his special friend Tommy Best. He and Eldridge Kennedy spent a lot of time at Walmart on the front bench. He was a very determined man who often was known for as having his way. He was a good hearted, quiet family man. He belonged to the New Bethel Methodist Church and loved sacred harp singing. Throughout his life, he worked as lumberjack, in the auto industry, and worked for True Temper.

Survivors include his wife, of 74 years, Marlin Pierce Phillips; daughter, Linda (Andy) Gosa, Smithville; four sons, Dwight (Edna) Phillips, Fulton, Gary Phillips, Amory, David(Rita) Phillips, Smithville, Mike Philips, Smithville; 9 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 2 sisters, Mavis Welch and Melva Phillips; a grandchild; 2 great-grandchildren.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 P.M., Monday, April 18 at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home in Smithville, with Bro. Tom Sims officiating. Burial will be in Turon Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Fred Stephens, Mark Welch, Dudley Pierce, Dow Pierce, W.H. Gregory, and Ed Best.

Visitation will be from 5 – 7 PM, Sunday at E. E. Pickle Funeral Home Chapel in Smithville.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at eepicklefuneralhome.com.