William Raymond Phillips

William Raymond Phillips, 95, of Sebring, FL, passed away October 6, 2015. His beloved wife Dovie of 71 years survives. Ray grew up in Mississippi County, Missouri, parents where Lottie and Ida Phillips. He is the oldest of five brothers and three sisters, Jack, Ralph, Amos, Divola Walberg, Mary Alice Fuller, Delores Cook, and infant sister Mary (deceased). He is survived by brothers, Ben Phillips of Okeechobee, FL, and John Phillips (Maureen) of Scott City, MO, and several nieces and nephews. Ray was a decorated Army veteran of World War II, proudly serving his county. He received the prestigious Purple Heart and other commendation Medals for his service. Upon returning home from the military, he and Dovie settled in East Peoria, Illinois. He began his construction company and worked until retirement. Ray was a active member of the Mennonite Church and an active volunteer in his community. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge-32nd degree and he was a member of Local 649 Operating Engineers. After spending many winters in Kissimmee, Florida enjoying his favorite hobby, fishing, he and Dovie moved to Sebring to be near family in 2008. His many friends and family will miss his quiet nature, generous heart, loving and caring personality, and his gift of telling stories. A visitation will be held on Friday, October 9, 2015, 9:30am, at Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home of Sebring followed by a military funeral beginning at 10:00am with Pastor Tod Schwingel officiating. Burial will be at Sarasota National Cemetery, Sarasota, FL. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to East Peoria Mennonite Church, 125 N. Norwood Place, East Peoria, ILL 64611 and Sebring Christian Church, 4514 Hammock Road, Sebring, FL 33875 (www.sebringchristianchurch.com)