Wendell Phillips Obituary

Wendell Phillips, 66 of Ormond Beach, FL went home to be with the Lord Nov. 15, 2016, after suffering the complications of a brain hemorrhage. Wendell was born and raised in Wilmington, MA, the youngest son of the late Wendell E. Phillips and Anne Marie Phillips. He attended Wilmington High School, and at the age of 18 joined the Marines and was deployed to Vietnam, where he served his country proud. While in Vietnam, Wendell was part of a unit that undertook severe casualties, and was the only survivor of his company. He sustained major injuries and was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery. Though his physical wounds would heal, the emotional scars of his experiences overseas would remain. Following his tour in Viet Nam he entered the trades and became a skilled iron worker, the pinnacle of his career a job constructing Bostons now-famous landmark, the Zakim Bridge. He also trained as a chef, and would often use his talents in the kitchen at family gatherings. Oh yes, he also went to school to become a hairdresser, his talents were many. Upon retirement, Wendell enjoyed riding his motorcycle, traveling around the country, and playing poker. His favorite destinations were Las Vegas and Costa Rica. He settled in Ormond Beach, FL, to enjoy the sunshine. Fast-talking and good-humored, Wendell was much loved by his siblings and late mother, as well as a favorite uncle to several nieces and nephews, all of whom adored the twinkle in his eye, his funny stories and frank conversations about sports and politics. In his younger years, Wendell was an avid athlete and sports fan, taking part in hockey, tennis, softball and golf, a sport he would continue to play and love until his last days. Many a warm day was spent with friends and family at Silver Lake. Wendell loved life and often would be among the missing as his mother would be yelling out the back door, Earlrille," all heard except for Earl (his childhood name). While being cared for by his sisters he often would mis-behave and yes they did tie him to a chair once but that did not keep him down. Oh so handsome and very charismatic he managed to get out of trouble. His laugh was very contagious, his sense of humor was right up there with Jimmy Kimmel. In his last days, while semi conscious, he did a great job causing many a nurse to smile and his sister and her husband to laugh. Wendell was suffering so much, however he kept that twinkle in his eye until the end as he fought the fight. Wendell was able to say good-bye to his friends and family via speaker phone and YES he smiled as he heard each loved one talk to him; he sensed the love. Survived by his wife Kimberly, brother Robert; sisters Patricia, Judith and Arlene. He is also survived by his Aunt Helen, several nieces and nephews, cousins and friends that have stood by him for many years. While in FL Wendells extended family, Barry and Faye, made him a part of the family. Wendells life and service will be honored and remembered with a Military funeral at The National Cemetery, Connery Ave, Bourne, MA 02532, on Friday, Dec. 2 at 12:30 p.m. sharp.

Published by The Tewksbury Advocate from Nov. 30 to Dec. 8, 2016.
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2 Entries

May the hearer of prayer, comfort you throughout this most difficult time.
Matthew 21:22

January 4, 2017

Heartfelt condolences are extended to Wendell's family. May the loving memories warm your hearts. We look forward to the time when Isaiah 9:6 will be fulfilled and we all enjoy global peace along with no more death suffering and pain that will spoil the beauty of Paradise.

Ms. Totsy

December 15, 2016

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2

Funeral

12:30 p.m.

The National Cemetery

Connery Ave, Bourne, MA

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