Joseph M. Phillips

Joseph M. Phillips, born July 29, 1947, in Phillipsburg, Pennsylvania to Joseph and Eva (Waite) Phillips, passed away Monday, February 9, 2026, peacefully with his wife and daughters by his side at the Pickering House in Lancaster, Ohio after a long battle with cancer which he fought with dignity and utmost courage. Joe was a proud tool and die maker by trade. He retired from Meritor in Newark, Ohio in 2009. After retirement he found pleasure in tinkering in his garage with his tools, gardening, bowling, and hitting up local golf courses with his brother and friends. He was an active member of Elks Lodge 509. He married the love of his life Sandra Hutmire on February 10, 1979. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Phillips of 47 years; brother, Terry (Sharon) Phillips, daughters, Kim (Rob) Kensler, Jodi Shiplett, and Jill (Ed) Davisson; niece, Tarra (Troy) Hottle; grandchildren, Drew (Kayla) Cheney, Kendra (Shawn Gottke) Cheney, Brianne (Jon) Pyles, Devan Richard, Ethan Richard, Jordan (Alli) Shiplett, Kaytlynn Shiplett, Tyler (Jessica) Davisson, Trevor (Marisa) Davisson, and Trey (Maggie Skinner) Davisson; great-grandchildren, Noah and Violet Cheney, Ian and Kyra Saffell, Christian Gottke, Josey and Boston Pyles, Georgie, Bryer, Rhett, Jacey, and Cash Davisson, and Annie Shiplett; best friends, Jerry and Thelma Rehart; and multiple step siblings. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Eva Phillips; daughter, Tara Parsons; and stepmother, Goldie (Talbot) Phillips. The family expresses gratitude to FMC Oncology and Infusion Clinic, FairHope Hospice and Palliative Care, and the staff at Pickering House for their excellent compassionate care. Per Joe’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or service. Bope-Thomas Funeral Home in Somerset is entrusted with a caring cremation.

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