Photo courtesy of Wise Funeral Home - Bonham
Bonham, Texas
Feb 9, 1939 – May 13, 2023
Donald Wayne Phillips went to live with Jesus on May 13, 2023.
Don was born on February 9, 1939 in Dodd City, Texas to parents Pearl Hopkins and Harless Phillips. He graduated from Bonham High School in 1958 and went on to marry his high school sweetheart Pam Ware on July 22, 1960. Hard work and determination was at the core of Don. His first job was at the age of 6 delivering newspapers. As a young man, his love for cars turned into a career where ultimately he became president and managing partner of his very own Chevrolet - Buick dealership. Don also took great pride serving on the Chevrolet Dealers council board. With a servant's heart Don enjoyed being on the Chamber of Commerce, Master Mason for over 60 years, president of the Kiwanis Club, Jaycee member, and being on the finance committee at 7th and Main Baptist Church. He also volunteered with the Bonham Heart Association and Special Olympics. He championed the creation of Bonham Trade Days which is thriving and still in existence today. Don's passion for flying led to him getting his pilot's license. Bright and early on weekend mornings you would find him taking to the sky. When he wasn't in the air he was on his tractor or enjoying his small herd of Brangus cattle. Don never met a stranger and loved everyone he met. Some of his favorite times were spent telling stories or jokes with his Coffee Club friends. Don will be forever loved and missed by all who knew him.
He is preceded in death by parents, Pearl Evans and Harless Phillips, sister, Ginger Powell and great grandson Dawson Sewell.
Don is survived by wife, Pam Phillips of 63 years, daughters, Donna Thomas and husband Terry, Kelly Swayne and husband David, grandchildren, Taylor Sewell and husband Clay, Zach Thomas, Tanner Swayne and wife Krys, Garrett Swayne and wife Sydney, six great grandchildren, sisters, Judy Phillips and husband Rocky, Patti Stone and husband Talmadge, brother, Larry Phillips and wife Deborah, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Please join the family on May 18, 2023 for a graveside service at Carson Cemetery starting at 10:00am.
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So sorry for your loss Pam. Prayers for you at this time.
Helen smith Barrett
May 18, 2023 | Lago Vista, TX | Friend
Keep you eyes and heart focused on GOD for he will comfort you thru the very saddest of times. He told us in his word that he would never leave us nor forsake us. Be at peace and know we all LOVE YOU.
Milton Brown
May 18, 2023 | Sherman, TX | Friend
Rest in peace Mr. Phillips. May God bless you and your family. Tony
Tony Howard
May 17, 2023 | Bonham, TX | Friend
My sympathies to Pam and all of Don's Family. I bought my very first NEW car from Don almost 60 years ago and have considered him a Friend ever since. The past few years I have enjoyed visited Don and his special friend sitting in his car in front of Walmart many Mornings. The World has lost a truly HONEST Car Salesman. God Bless each and every one of you.
Dwight (Casey) Jones
May 17, 2023 | Bonham, TX | Friend
Don, Pam and their daughters are among my first memories, growing up across from them on Victory St. It is my privilege to say I have literally known Don my entire life. Our world dimmed but Heaven is rejoicing. I don't have words to convey my sorrow for your loss.
Jennie Hodge Poe
May 17, 2023 | Bonham, TX | Friend
Don was a wonderful man and friend. Breaks my heart that he had to leave, but is rejoicing in Heaven.
Orpha Crain
May 17, 2023 | Yucca Valley, CA
Prayers for the family and blessings and thanks for Don!
Jo Ann MacConnell
May 17, 2023
Pam and family, I am so sorry to hear of Don's passing but rejoice with you that he is in heaven. May the Lord be with you all and give you peace and understanding during this time. I have such wonderful memories of the times we spent together in those days of selling cars!
Nancy
Nancy Coonrod Gardner
May 16, 2023 | Duplex Community, TX | Friend
Dear Pam and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Don was a precious man and will be missed by all who knew and loved him, but none more than you. Praying that God will cover you with His grace and provide peace and comfort, now and in the days ahead. John 14:1-4
Teresia Bond Gibson
May 16, 2023 | Lannius, TX | Friend
