Gary Phillips

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Owen "Gary" Phillips, age 83, passed away Monday, December 30, 2024 at his home in Oswego, Kansas.

Gary was born January 29, 1941 to the late Jack and Mildred (Hulen) Phillips in rural Columbus, Kansas at the family home. Throughout his life, he worked several jobs including BF Goodrich for over 20 years, maintenance for Class, and also for the Labette County Appraiser's Office. He was rightfully proud of the time he spent serving our country in the Army during Vietnam. 

Gary married Sharolyn Jane Graham on October 1, 1959 in Miami, Oklahoma. She survives of the home. Gary and Sharolyn enjoyed traveling all over the world together to places like Ukraine, Russia, China, Croatia, and Venice, just to name a few. He was a lifetime member of the VFW, and was also a gun enthusiast.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by two brothers: Jack Phillips Jr., and Emmett Phillips; and two sisters: Freda Newcomb, and Nancy Martin.

He his survived by his wife Sharolyn, one son: Gary Andrew Phillips (wife Debbie) of Webb City, MO; three daughters: Molly Wright of Independence, KS, Lori Holt (husband Gregg) of Columbus, KS, Cindy Dill (husband Mark) of Independence, KS; eight grandchildren: Diane Shelly (husband Jonny), David Phillips (wife Rachel), Sarah Phillips (wife Faith), Gary Holt (wife Amanda), Amanda Holt (wife Shelby), Matthew Wright, Andrew Dill, and Berea Dill; and nine great-grandchildren: Joel Shelly, Paige Shelly, Gentry Holt, Eleanor Holt, Oakley Wright, Asher Wright, Savannah Phillips, and Lucas Phillips.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Derfelt Funeral Home of Oswego, KS. The family will receive friends Tuesday, January 7, 2025 from 1:00 PM-2:00 PM at Derfelt Funeral Home in Oswego. A memorial service will be held directly following the visitation Tuesday, at 2:00 PM. Online condolences may be left for the family at derfeltfuneralhomes.com.