Craig M. Phillips, 73, of Spartanburg passed away peacefully on Monday, October 26th at his home surrounded by family.
Craig was born on July 7, 1947 in Flint, Michigan to the late Clifford M. Phillips (Fran) and, very much alive, Betty Jean Phillips. Craig attended Grand Blanc High School and the University of Michigan, Go Blue! When he decided that school wasn’t for him, he enlisted in the US Army. He attended OCS at Fort Benning, GA, was assigned to Fort Jackson, and from there sent to Vietnam. He fought proudly and made many lasting friendships. Upon returning, he was stationed at Fort Jackson for the remainder of his active duty.
He met the love of his life, Kay, on a blind date and was married for 53 years to this very patient woman. Settling in Columbia, he began work at Budweiser of Columbia. Learning the family business led him to his long career at Budweiser of Spartanburg. Craig was known to be a man of few words, lots of them colorful, and a man with a GIANT, giving heart. He was a beer man who loved his community immensely and his friends, co-workers, and family immeasurably.
In addition to his mother, Craig is survived by his wife Kay; his daughters, Shelley Sullivan and Shannon Johnson (Michael); his grandchildren, Sydney Michelle Sullivan of Atlanta, GA, Spencer Craig Sullivan of Spartanburg, SC, Nina Kay Johnson and Ian Michael Johnson of Spartanburg, SC; his favorite cat Ollie; and his whole Budweiser of Spartanburg family.
The family would like to say a special thank you to Spartanburg Regional Hospice, Comfort Keepers, and to the many caregivers that have been both fortunate and patient enough to have worked with him: Emily Moreno, Janice Rogers, Ann Foggie and Karise Chinloy.
Services will be private. There will be a HUGE celebration of life, at a later date, with beer, barbeque, music, and lots of shared stories.
Memorials can be made to a local charity of your choice.
Tommy Phillips
October 23, 2023
A very great man a soldier and proud that i worked for him and a great family man.
Byron Yahnis
November 6, 2020
Many prayers of comfort and love for the passing of Craig. I have missed seeing him at Beer Association for the last many years and those meetings have never been the same. My deepest sympathy to your family.
Susan Pearlstine
November 3, 2020
Kay and family I was so sad to learn today that Craig had passed away last week. He was always so kind and funny too. I've missed seeing my old Budweiser family including and especially you and Craig. My most heartfelt prayers and love are with you.
Sterling and Jane Anderson and family
November 2, 2020
Our prayers and thoughts are with Kay, Shannon and Shelley in the loss or our dear friend, Craig. He was a true warrior serving his Nation in Vietnam. Craig will be missed by his many friends and associates in our area and state.
God bless the family.
Sterling Anderson
Pat McClelland
November 2, 2020
Another brother is gone—our condolences to Craig's family.
Lynda and Pat McClelland 2nd Platoon C-3rd/8th
Patricia and Jeff Hallman
November 1, 2020
Prayers for the Phillips family, Jeff and I were lucky enough to have met Craig and his wonderful family many years ago. He was a great man to have known, we feel lucky to have Kay and the Phillips family of Budweiser in our lives.
William McConnell
October 31, 2020
A very Good Man.
Tom and Carol Stork
October 31, 2020
We are saddened to learn of Craig’s passing. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.
Bob Maranise
October 31, 2020
My condolences to the Phillips family. Craig was an inspirational leader in Vietnam. He led by example with courage and concern for his men. May he Rest In Peace with God.
Richard Adams
October 31, 2020
We send our deepest sympathy to Kay and family. Rick & Patty Adams, and fellow Vietnam veterans of the 4th Infantry Division.
AnneReed Edwards
October 31, 2020
Kay,
Blessings on you and your family at this time of earthly loss. Sara and I botj send our love.
Anne
Skip Franges
October 30, 2020
I send my deepest sympathy and condolences to Kay and Craig’s family.
I had the pleasure of serving along side Craig in Vietnam. Like Craig, I was a young platoon leader in Charlie Company.
Craig was not just an outstanding soldier he was a good man and well appreciated by all those who served with him.
Rest In Peace my brother.
STEVE EDMUNDS
October 30, 2020
On behalf of the Ivy Dragoons (3/8th 4th Infantry Division RVN 1966-70), I wish to extend our deepest condolences to Kay, family and friends on your loss. Craig was an outstanding individual as well as an army officer commanding 3rd platoon of C Co 3/8th during his tour in Vietnam 67-68. RIP, my Brother! Slow hand salute.
Lew Phillips & Family
October 30, 2020
Please accept our warmest condolences, we are deeply sorry for your loss.
Sherrie Loyd
October 30, 2020
I was so sorry to hear about Craig passing..
He was a good friend and boss for many years.. Praying for Kaye and the family ..
Kathryn Cannon
October 30, 2020
Kay, I am thinking of you at this time and offer my deepest sympathy.
Janie c Salley
October 30, 2020
To the Phillip family, my deepest sympathy for a great loss. Prayers for his resting in peace.
Joe Sessoms
October 30, 2020
To Craig’s Family
I am so sorry to learn of the passing of my good friend Craig. He was a very good friend and client for many years at WASC Radio in Spartanburg, He meant so very much to the upstate community and most importantly Spartanburg. No doubt this man will be missed. Rest In Peace ole friend and may the God of our fathers hold your family firmly in the palm of is hand during this most unsettling time.
Tommy Phillips
October 30, 2020
Thanks for everything that you did for me as an employee of Budweiser of Spartanburg .RSP.
Joe Spigner
October 29, 2020
Fair winds and following seas, sir.
The Staff of J. M. Dunbar Funeral Home & Crematory
October 31, 2020
Offering our deepest sympathies during this time.
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