James Phillips Obituary

James B. Phillips, born in Americus, Ga., to the late Anthony and Estelle (Monson) Phillips, departed this life, Oct. 4, 2013, at his home in Bridgewater. Since an early age he remained involved in church activities throughout his life. As a long standing member of St. Mark Congregational Church, United Church of Christ in Roxbury, he faithfully served as deacon, supporting the church mission even during times of health challenges. James served during the Korean War. After graduation from Staley High School in Americus, Ga., James attended Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Ga., where he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in English. He later received two master's degrees, one from New York University in English Literature and the other from Boston University in Reading. James primary profession was education. During his career he served as a high school teacher, adjunct professor, editor, co-author and developer of educational curriculum. His passion was teaching high school students, beginning his career at Harmon Hall in York, Maine. He retired in 1990 after teaching English Literature and Reading at Norwood High School for 30 years. In addition to his service in the public school system, he taught for the A Better Chance Program at both Dartmouth College in Hanover, N.H., and Williams College in Williamstown; worked as an adjunct faculty member within the Massachusetts Community College system; co-authored and edited high school English textbooks with Scott Foresman Publishing Company and developed educational curricula to be used with the Black Cowboy Film Series. James was a life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and an active member of the Boston Alumni Chapter where he served several years as chairman of the Scholarship Committee. An expert gardener, with a profound appreciation for rhododendrons, he was a member of both the American and Massachusetts Rhododendron Societies and served as editor of the publication, The Rosebay from 1991-1998. One could count on his expertise on wines and opera. He loved reading, music and the arts, but his greatest love was for his family and the Lord. He leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife, Sherley A.; and two adult children, son, Crispin (Stella) of Minnesota; daughter, Rheba Lowery (Jermaine); and two grandchildren, Alexis Phillips of Springfield and Austin Phillips of Minnesota. He is also survived by his four sisters-in-law and two brothers-in-law, loving cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral service was held in St. Mark Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, 200 Townsend St., Roxbury, Saturday, Oct. 12, at 11 a.m. Visiting hour at church prior to the funeral service. Burial in Elmwood Cemetery, East Bridgewater. Donations in James' memory may be made to Greater Boston Kappa Charities Scholarship Fund, 311 Adams St., Quincy, MA 02159-1757. For online condolences, please visit www.ccgfuneralhome.com. Prophett-Chapman Cole & Gleason 508-697-4332

Published by The Bridgewater Independent from Oct. 9 to Oct. 16, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

I have the pleasure of reconnecting with students Jim and I both taught. Every time I do, the student wants to talk about their respect for Mr. Phillips and his enduring interest in their welfare. He was beloved of his students, and the family can be exceedingly proud of this legacy.

Delores L Staton

Friend

October 4, 2021

Jim was a very dear friend and teaching colleague. I always admired him for his zest for life, his interest in opera, and his love of cultivation of rhodendrons. He was a renaissance man, a loving husband and father.

Delores Staton

Friend

October 3, 2020

Again we have the good fortune to remember the beautiful spirit of Jim. Ran into a former student of his who wanted all to know how inspiring Jim was as a teacher. This students credits Jim with teaching him to read 1200 words a minute. There is no greater compliment than being remembered by former students.

Delores Staton

Friend

October 3, 2019

Sherley, We are so sorry to hear of James passing and there surly is a very special angel in heaven now. Our regards and prayers are with yoy Crispin and Rehba at this time God Bless

Elaine and Ira Smith

October 13, 2013

It is profoundly sad to hear of such an expansive spirit being extinguished. What I remember most about James and what I will miss the most was his great zest for life. I want to express my deepest sympathies to Sherley, Crispin and Rheba. I appreciate the loss that you feel. It was beautiful to watch Jim savor his love of opera, rhododendrums, and good food. The love of just being is a skill that many of us have forgotten. Jim had the rare talent to revel in the moment and to not hurry through the beauty of the experience at hand. Jim will be missed. I am sure that his many students in their remembrance will all have at least one favorite tale to tell about their extraordinary teacher. sincerely delores l staton

Delores L Staton

October 9, 2013

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Memorial Events
for James Phillips

Oct

12

Visitation

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

St. Mark Congregational Church, United Church of Christ

200 Townsend St., Roxbury, MA

Oct

12

Funeral service

11:00 a.m.

St. Mark Congregational Church, United Church of Christ

200 Townsend St., Roxbury, MA

Funeral services provided by:

Chapman Funerals & Cremations - Bridgewater

98 Bedford Street, Bridgewater, MA 02324

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