Gurney Lewis Phillips, age 86, passed away at home with his family on October 26, 2018. Born March 28, 1932 to Elza and Gurney Phillips, he grew up with his four siblings in Bear Creek, NC. In 1955, marriage to Jeanette Campbell brought him to Silk Hope, NC, where he raised two daughters, many cows, and thousands of chickens.
He spent his adult life loving his wife Jeanette, two daughters Annette and Jo, sons-in-law Keith Dorsett and Joe Lockwood, siblings Mary Cox, BF Phillips (deceased), Bobby Phillips, and Betty Jean Rives (deceased), their spouses and children, plus so many more beloved family and friends.
The job he cherished most was being a family man. A dedicated husband for 63 years, he was also proud to be a father, a son, a brother, an uncle, a cousin, a brother-in-law, a son-in-law, and so much more. Beyond this he excelled in numerous other roles: Army cryptographer, diesel mechanic, devoted church member, ice cream maker and ice cream eater, farmer, chicken grower, cattleman, volunteer fireman, Rook card player, wood worker, avid tomato grower, back road explorer, and NC mountain lover. He was a man who enjoyed mowing his lawn, riding his tractor, and fixing anything. With a mischievous smile and wit, he liked to tease and joke with everyone. His strong faith and family upbringing made him a generous man, eager to help others.
The family would like to thank the medical and personal caregivers who over the years worked to give us more time together. To further their work with the hope of helping other families, gifts may be made at www.uncheartvalve.org. Memorials may also be made to Lewis’ and Jeanette’s church, Sapling Ridge United Methodist Church, at the address below.
The family received friends on Monday, October 29 from 6-8 p.m. at Smith and Buckner Funeral Home, located at 230 N Second Avenue, Siler City, NC 27344, www.pughfuneralhome.com. Lewis’ life was celebrated on Tuesday, October 30 at 2 p.m. at Sapling Ridge United Methodist Church, located at 5016 Silk Hope Gum Springs Road, Pittsboro, NC 27312.
“Don’t cry because he’s gone. Smile because he was here.”
Online condolences may be made at www.pughfuneralhome.com.
