James Edward Phillips

James Edward “Jim” Phillips, age 88, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, in Dayton, Ohio. Born on June 1, 1937, in Dayton, Jim lived a full and meaningful life centered on his deep love for family and the simple joys found in everyday moments.

Jim proudly served his country as an Army SP-5 from 1959 to 1962, attaining the rank of Sergeant. The discipline and dedication he gained during his military service remained with him throughout his life.

A quiet man by nature, Jim found happiness in life’s uncomplicated pleasures. He enjoyed relaxing on the back porch with an occasional cigar and gathering for Sunday family dinners with a glass of red wine. His children and grandchildren knew they would never leave a visit without a Tootsie Pop. He possessed a wonderfully dry sense of humor and a gift for delivering perfectly timed one-liners that caught everyone off guard and left them laughing.

Jim held a deep passion for travel and cherished family vacations and adventures with his wife, Marianne, of 61 years. Every summer he meticulously planned trips—whether camping by a fire or traveling to places like California or Disney—that strengthened family bonds and created lasting memories. Above all, he will be remembered for his quiet strength and unwavering love for his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marianne Phillips; daughters Christina Duffy (Rick), Kathy Schrepferman, and Becky Wenger (Mike); grandchildren Brittany, Zachary, Joshua, Emily, Adam, Sam, Michael, Matthew, and Kate; and great-granddaughter Evelyn. He was predeceased by his parents Robert and Marie Phillips, his brother Donald, and his sister Anita.