Richard Robert Phillips

 Richard Robert Phillips, 70, of Wilson, North Carolina, passed away on August 25, 2024, at the Crystal Coast Hospice House. Rick courageously departed his earthly home, unbroken and bound for heaven, enveloped in the love of his wife Debbie, and his daughters Kim and Kathleen.

 Rick was born on October 11, 1953, and grew up in Westfield, New Jersey. He graduated from Westfield High School, and later East Carolina University, where he received both his undergraduate and MBA degrees. Rick moved to Wilson, North Carolina, to join the management training program at Firestone, where he worked for six years before joining Merck & Company in 1986, and where he spent the remainder of his career.

 Rick, who was known for his calm, kind demeanor, and the twinkle in his eye, loved life and being with his family. He enjoyed playing golf, and spending time with the members of his senior golf group at the Wilson Country Club and introducing his grandsons to the game.

 Rick truly enjoyed his time at his home in Atlantic Beach and spent fun days on the water and at the beach. Many happy hours were spent by Rick and Debbie in the company of their children, grandchildren, and longtime friends watching sunsets, cooking together, and toasting to life’s good fortune.

 Rick and Debbie loved to travel, and had wonderful times in Florida, and sailing to many ports of call around the world. They especially loved traveling to Greece, and recently had a special trip with their girls to Gasparilla Island.

 Rick is survived by his wife of forty-seven years, Deborah Glenn Phillips, and his beloved daughters, Kim Phillips Ellis (Scott) and Kathleen Phillips Gibson (Carr). The light in Rick’s life was his four grandsons Graham Ellis, John Carr Gibson, Parker Ellis, and William Gibson, whom he spent hours with and loved so dearly. They brought him great joy and big fun, and he was their “Pops” and very best buddy.

 Rick was preceded in death by his parents Chick and Shirley Phillips and is survived by his two brothers and their families, Paul Phillips (Mary) of Wilmington, North Carolina, and David Phillips (Leslie) of Charlotte, North Carolina.

 To cherish the great memories and honor his life, Rick’s family will host friends and family for a celebration of life on Sunday, September 8, 2024 from 3pm to 5pm (floating) at The Leaning Tree , 6168 Deans Street, Bailey, NC 27807.

 The family would like to extend their gratitude to all that supported Rick in his cancer journey, with special thanks to the compassionate team at Crystal Coast Hospice House and to the incredible medical team at the Duke Brain Tumor Center.

 In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorials be directed to the SECU Crystal Coast Hospice House, PO Box 640, Newport, NC, 28570.

 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

 Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.