Jerry Lynn Phillips

Born on January 13, 1936 to Roy and Agnes Phillips, Jerry Lynn Phillips lived a life of faithfulness beginning with faithfulness to his Lord. His faith permeated every aspect of his life including his work, his relationship with his family, and his service to Sardis Baptist Church where he was a deacon, song leader, and teacher. Unshakable, his faith anchored him, and those around him, even in difficult times. He became the faithful husband of Oleta Phillips on December 31, 1954. Whether working on the farm, attending church, visiting with their family or simply sitting at home, Jerry and Oleta did it together. After graduating as the Valedictorian of Sardis High School, Jerry began Phillips Construction Company and built houses for families, including his parents, his wife’s parents, his brother, his brother-in-law, and his wife and children. Having recognized his strong work ethic, his sharp analytical skills, and his ability to work well with people, the Farmers’ Home Administration offered him a job which he accepted and enjoyed until his retirement. In addition to holding a full-time job, he spent his early mornings, evenings and Saturdays working on his hog farm which at its peak had about 700 hogs. In all his endeavors, he offered nothing less than excellence. Jerry was the faithful father of four children: Tony Phillips (deceased), Jan Phillips Acuff (Rocky), Marty Phillips (Gaye), and Chad Phillips (Jennifer). He was known as Gramps to his grandchildren: Hannah Phillips Owens (Jared), Phillip Butler (Angela), Zachary Phillips, Jonathan Phillips, Benjamin Phillips, Samuel Phillips, Lydia Phillips, Selah Phillips, and his great granddaughter, Adeline Butler. Jerry was the older brother of Denny Phillips (Nell). On October 28, 2017 at about 5:30 a.m., Jerry’s faith became sight. He departed as he had wished: at home in the house he had built, quickly and peacefully, with his loving wife of almost 63 years at his side. Though the Phillips Family has lost its patriarch, Jerry Phillips has left his family a heritage of faithfulness, a model of excellence, and a host of happy memories. The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 30, and at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 31, at Sardis Baptist Church. The funeral service will be at 3:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will follow in the Spring Hill Cemetery in Sardis. The family acknowledges and thanks his two loving caregivers, Pam Grady and Lynn Benson.

Jerry Lynn Phillips

January 13, 1936 - October 28, 2017