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Tony Phillips
1959 - 2016
Tony Phillips
1959 - 2016
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1959
DIED
2016
Tony Phillips Obituary
The Oakland Athletics announced Phillips’ unexpected death Friday. He made the final defensive play against the San Francisco Giants in the memorable 1989 World Series. The championship series, featuring two San Francisco Bay-area teams, was delayed by an earthquake.
Born in 1959, Phillips began his 18-year major league career with Oakland in 1982 at age 23. He was a versatile defender, spending time at second base, shortstop and third base, as well as occasional starts in the outfield.
He was also effective with a bat. Although he did not have outstanding traditional statistics, he had good plate discipline and twice led the majors in walks. His high on-base percentage made him an ideal leadoff hitter. More emphasis on the value of defense and on-base percentage in recent years has led to a greater appreciation of players like Phillips.
In addition to his nine years in Oakland, Phillips played five seasons for the Detroit Tigers. In his later years, he spent time with the Angles, White Sox, Mets and Blue Jays before wrapping up his big-league career in Oakland at age 40 in 1999. He continued to play baseball periodically in independent leagues until 2015.
“Tony will forever be remembered by the fans because he made that last out, and it was a tough ground ball he made a great play on,” former A’s manager Tony La Russa told The San Francisco Chronicle. “He was still in great shape, he was down here at our camp three or four days a week. I’m just in shock.”
His unexpected death prompted statements from both the Oakland Athletics and Detroit Tigers.
“Tony was an exciting player to watch and became a fan favorite during his years in Detroit. The Tigers organization extends our deepest sympathies to Tony’s family,” the Tigers said in a statement.
82 Entries
Deborah
December 16, 2016
I hope that as time passes you will continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends, and also by our heavenly Father who promises comfort and strength when needed. Psalms 46: 1. My thoughts are with the family.
Lisa Christensen
September 4, 2016
Big hugs to Tony's Family, just hearing of your loss for the first time today. It was an honor and privilege to have known Tony .. He always had a smile on his face that will never be forgotten...
How you can show support
Wornel Simpson
March 8, 2016
RIP Tony. I enjoyed working with you during a pivotal part of your career. Thanks for the opportunity. And, our off-season one on one basketball games were legendary! Contrary to what we said to each other, you could play!!
Yvette Vaughn
March 3, 2016
RIP ... My Good Friend. I will never forget you.
-Yvette Vaughn (Phoenix,AZ)
Bruce Brown
February 28, 2016
I will miss you my friend. Talking about family, life and baseball for hours on end. Your laugh and smile and your trademark "Yes" and "I've got this." Rest easy it was an honor knowing you.
Julius Jr & Tony Phillips
Sam Clarke
February 27, 2016
Im thankful to have had the opportunity to get to know and befriend you. I appreciate you taking out the time to work with my grandson and involving me in some of your baseball events and activities! I wont forget you friend may you rest in peace.
Ray (Tony) Duncan
February 26, 2016
Was my pleasure to know and play pony league baseball with my good friend TONY Phillips.I will remember all our good times together .our family was so proud of Tony when he made it to the pros.your light will always shine bright in my life,RIP Friends forever.
Donald Caldwell
February 26, 2016
May GOD Bless you,my friend.I will. Always remember all our good times playing baseball. In the pony league in Roswell,Ga.
It was a pleasure to coach you.RIP Always your friend.
Prayers for the family.
Randy Caldwell
February 26, 2016
RIP My Friend!
Diana Krause
February 26, 2016
Lifting up the Phillips Family. I never knew Tony, my mom worked with his mom at GE.
February 26, 2016
We will miss Tony's sense of humor, love of the game and of life. He and Debbie came to enjoy SEC football and tailgating. All of you are in our prayers! Remember the good times! The Richards Family, Scottsdale, AZ
February 26, 2016
I feel so fortunate to have known Tony. He was an incredibly generous person who loved to share his time, his talents and his wonderful love for life. I am saddened by the news of his passing and the tremendous loss of a such beautiful soul for his family. Keep the memory of him alive in your hearts.
Cathy Geralds Phillips
Bart Zeller
February 25, 2016
Got to know Tony well over the past 6-7 years. He helped me find deserving players for Indy Baseball; had a passion for the game and still believed he could play. Very unselfish to young players who wanted to "live the dream". You are leading off today my friend! RIP
February 24, 2016
My Condolences to the family . I met Tony in 1981 when he played for the West Haven A's
Direk t. Rodgers sr
Stacey Graham
February 23, 2016
Rest in peace our sweet friend,you are up there in heaven with my dad Billy Wayne Graham,and my nana and papa Wayne's mom and dad The entire GRAHAM FAMILY loved you very much you will be forever missed .Rest in peace until the day we see each other again.Stacey Graham and FAMILY
wayne
February 23, 2016
Great neighbor who had a ready smile and great taste in music. we will miss you, your wave and smile,and your music, Tony.
H Zadeh
February 23, 2016
We are immensely shocked and saddened by the passing of our new friend and super friendly and welcoming neighbor,Tony. We will miss his 70's music (He loved Elton John) blasting when he was working/playing or as he called it "razzle dazzling" out in the backyard. What a nice man. Just days ago we were talking baseball, east coast, Arizona, family...Unbelievable. He's gone way too soon. Our deepest condolences to his family.
Pamela Bowles
February 23, 2016
I am sorry for the Phillips Family's loss. Words can not express my sorrow for your family. Craig or Candance please let me know if there is anything I can do.
Harry Simpson
February 23, 2016
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Tony with the A's
John D'Acquisto
February 23, 2016
I am so sorry to hear about Tony's passing it was a shock as I had just talked to him recently. He was my team mate in Oakland he was a fine player and I will have fond memories of my friend Tony...Our Condolences to the Phillips family.
Denise Richards-Scarce
February 23, 2016
Thoughts and prayers to the Phillips family in this time of need. Tony was an exceptional man. He will be missed.
Richard Nicoletti
February 22, 2016
May the souls of the faithfully departed through the mercy of God rest in Peace.
Beverly Ward
February 22, 2016
RIP,my condolences to the family.
Debbie Powers Masters
February 22, 2016
My condolences go out to Tony's family, I have a lot of fond memories of being his classmate in the classroom as well as on the basketball court. After leaving Georgia, Tony played baseball with the Chicago White Sox and when we went to the games he always had time for his friends. We will miss you and my god bless.
Delorise Stancel
February 22, 2016
Prayers for the Phillips family. Sorry to hear of this loss to your family. May God hold each one of you in his graceful hands.
Gail Coleman
February 22, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of Tony's passing did not know him personally, but worked with his mother Jane for years driving the bus. She spoke very highly of him.
LeAnn Holloway
February 22, 2016
Your in my thoughts and prayers & forever in my heart. RIP in God's love and glory. Condolences to the Phillip's family. God bless you.
Dedria Jenkins
February 22, 2016
RIP,Tony.my Condolences to the family.
George Church
February 22, 2016
RIP Tony, and this town of Roswell, Georgia lost a great athlete of Roswell High School. Along with playing baseball, football within the Roswell Recreation and Parks. Which we both played against each other you on C&S Bank, and me on the Southern Mills. I was glad to see you at the last reunion. This town has lost a real hometown hero, and you will be missed.
George Church
February 22, 2016
RIP Tony, and my condolences go out to the family.
Michelle L
February 22, 2016
I didn't know Tony, the baseball player, I got to know Tony, the man. He had a heart for life and laughter, and always spoke his truth. My deepest sympathy to the family, Mrs. Debra Ann Phillips, his daughter Selena whom he called Princess, his granddaughter, Lucy, his new grandbaby, his daughter, Victoria, aka Juicy Fruit and his beloved granddaughter, Jada Boo, who he spent the last year spoiling. He will by truly missed by many.
February 22, 2016
RIP TONY so many people in our small town loved you and were and are so proud of you.To rise above the adversity in a small southern town was no small feat.
howard langley
February 22, 2016
My thoughts and prayers go out to Tony's friends and family, we lived across from the Phillips on Millbrook Cir. When I guess Tony was about 13 or 14 and he was always smiling. RIP
Betty Harden
February 22, 2016
My thoughts & prayers are with the family. Rest in Paradise Tony!!! God Bless!!
Betty (Clanton) Harden
G. Freeman
February 22, 2016
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
James "Tripp" Pair III
February 22, 2016
Tony was a good friend and neighbor throughout my high school years. Had the privilege of driving himto his first MLB tryout as well as playing ball with him at Waller Park. Tony was an absolute spark plug. Unstoppable at any sport. So,to Leonard,Craig and Stacey. My heart felt condolences to you all... I will always hold a special place in my heart for those days and the Phillips Family!
Deborah Lingerfelt
February 22, 2016
R.I.P.Our friend.We will surely miss you.Thank you for always having that smile and kind words that lit up our life.We will Meer you on the other side.Prayers to all your family and friends for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
February 22, 2016
My condolences to the Phillips family and especially to my niece Victoria.
Angela
Darlene
February 22, 2016
RIP Tony... my condolences to his family.
fonda bentley
February 22, 2016
Prayers for your family. You made Roswell even a much brighter place. Hope you run into my brother in heaven and you two play ball. You were loved by so many. Play ball Tony Phillips.
Katie Mason Cargle
February 21, 2016
Tony was a good man, great athlete and a fine role model. He was loved by many in Roswell, GA and will be greatly missed.
My prayers go up for all his family.
Katie Mason Cargle
February 21, 2016
Tony was a fine person, great athlete, excellent role model and someone all of Roswell could be proud. My prayers go up for all his family.
RHS Alumni
Brent Fields
February 21, 2016
James 4:14
"For ye know not what cometh on the morrow. For what is your life? It is but a vapour , that appearth for a little time and then vanish away."
Big fan of the late Tony Phillips.
I used to check the score box daily to see how he did in the latest game.
Good friends with his brother , Mr.Craig Phillips & even met his Mother once.
All great people.
I am sorry for the loss.
Peace and love,
Brent Fields
Kathy Scoggins-Smith
February 21, 2016
You are a bright shining star in Heaven!!! God has gained an Allstar. I will see you again, Heaven bound!!!
Kathy Scoggins-Smith
February 21, 2016
My condolences to the Phillips family. Tony was a good friend in High School. He dated one of my best friends. He was so kind. If you had Tony for a friend, you were lucky. He always had a kind word or hug to give. He was like a big brother, protector. I hated when he graduated. He was 2 years ahead of me. I had to learn to come out of being shy and taking up for myself. He was an Allstar in every sport he played. He made Roswell Hornets proud!!! Everyone knew he would go Pro. God has gained an angel. RIP my old friend, I will see you again and we can catch up.
Nancy Collins Jennings
February 21, 2016
Many fond memories of Tony cheerleading for RHS basketball and Football. God Speed Tony you will be missed! Prayers to your family.
February 21, 2016
My thoughts and prayers to family and friends...he was a great athlete and friend
Charlie Bishop
February 21, 2016
A Friend from Elementary School to High School, Always a Friend, Condolences to the Family
Thomas "TJ" Jones
February 21, 2016
May Gods peace be with you my friend. Will miss that smile and friendship. You will always be a hero at Roswell High. Gods Bless the Phillips family at this time.
Tony - Roswell High School - Loved by all
Sallie Ransom
February 21, 2016
I Kelly
February 21, 2016
My sincere condolences to Tony's family and friends. He had great talent! My thoughts and prayers are with the family. God's loyal love will comfort you. Psalms 119:76.
Dave Incardona
February 21, 2016
Tony was a man "who heard the music" in life. He was "action Jackson", full of LOVE for life and he had respect for people.....that was tony. He told me he could still play the game at 56 and that he had plans to play in an Independent League two weeks ago. On the golf course he was very competitive; in the gym, he was inspirational and "pound for pound" not very many were as gifted as Tony.
Dave Incardona
Umpire
Linda Strong
February 21, 2016
Our love and sincere condolences go to Tony's family! Will miss your infectious laugh, and your pearly white smile! Don't think we've ever seen you not smiling! Love and miss you Keith Anthony! ❤❤ Love "The Strong's" Bobby, Linda, Kelly, Ryan, and Shelby
George Croly
February 21, 2016
Had many intense battles on the basketball floor throughout high school against Tony and his older brother Leonard. Our schools were arch rivals. Tony was rated #11 in the state Top 25 Players as a Sr. He was All-Metro Atlanta. One of the best players I ever played against. Always felt he could have played in the NBA had he chosen that path. Fierce competitor, their leader, did whatever it took to win. A truly gifted athlete. Very saddened at this news. Condolences to the Phillips Family from all of us from North Springs basketball who admired Tony.
Frankie Garcia
February 20, 2016
At least a week ago had friendly conversation with Tony,in Scottsdale. I'll always remember him as someone that always had a smile. My deepest condolence to the family,your are all in our prayers.
Kevin Madsen
February 20, 2016
A very talented athlete and person that will be missed. God bless him and his family.
Tom MacMillan
February 20, 2016
Our son Terry played ball at Roswell High with Tony. Tony was a fine young man and a tremendous all around athlete. We were always proud to tell folks of our connection. So very sorry to hear of his passing.
Adrian Scott
February 20, 2016
Going to miss you bro(in-law). Your sudden passing proves how fleeting life is- I'm sure you would agree that we really need to appreciate our time here. Peaceful journey fam !
Dwaine Johnson
February 20, 2016
My Sincere Condolences to the Family and Friends of Tony Phillips. Loved him and the Oakland A's. R.I.P., player....
February 20, 2016
Like a man whom his own mother keep comforting,so I myself shall keep comforting you people..Isa.66:13....sincere sympathy to the Phillips family..........
Linda Strong
February 20, 2016
Our condolences to Tony's family! We were fortunate to spend time with Tony while playing with the Tigers and whenever else he was in town. He was wonderful to my 3 daughters. They have quite a collection of his hats, wristbands, and whatever else he could come up with! They thought the world of him! He had an infectious laugh and a wonderful smile! He was quite a hoot! Always talking about his wife and daughters. We will love and miss you always! ❤ Another angel in heaven. Gone to soon! Bob, Linda, Kelly, Ryan, and Shelby Strong
February 20, 2016
Time and unforeseen or unexpected circumstances befalls us all. But a "good name with God' is what counts. May his name go well with God. So sorry for your loss.
Mike Archer
February 20, 2016
I was fortunate enough to meet Tony while I worked Spring Training here in Arizona.Tony was one of the good guys!He was a great person with a gentle soul and a kind heart. I'm sorry to read this tragic news and my sincere condolences go out to his family and friends.
February 20, 2016
Wow life is full of unexpected events and unfortunately the passing of a love one
is high on that list.
My condolences to the family,friends and
fans of Mr.Tony Phillips.
The words At John 6:40 can be a comfort
to all at this difficult time.
February 20, 2016
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Robertson Family
February 20, 2016
Our condolences to the Phillips family. May the many fond memories of Tony bring calmness to you while the peace of God sustains you in the days ahead.
February 20, 2016
Phillips family~
Please accept our condolences.
February 20, 2016
My prayers and sincere condolences to your family during this sad time.
Elaine & James Coggins
February 20, 2016
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Bobby Romero
February 19, 2016
Played lots of golf with Tony... RIP my friend
RA Washington DC
February 19, 2016
Sorry for the unexpected loss of Tony Phillips. He was a tough player and real good pro. My condolences to the Phillips family. May the good memories and shared joy remain with you until God's promises as John 6:40 are fulfilled.
roseanne scott
February 19, 2016
R.i.p may you rest in peace
The Carter Family
February 19, 2016
Our condolences to the loved ones, baseball family, and friends of Tony Phillips, a legend within his own right: May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding comfort and console you through the difficult times ahead.
James Robinson
February 19, 2016
My condolences to the family of Tony Phillips.R.I.P. and in GODS LOVE.
Debra humphrey
February 19, 2016
Sending prayers to the family
RIP TONY PHILLIPS
James Long
February 19, 2016
My sympathy to your family during this time of grief. he had a great career as a base ball player. may his legacy live on.
February 19, 2016
Heart goes out to families. Especially Victoria Phillips, remembering friendships. God Bless all you.
With love, Sheila Barroza Ulmer
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