Dennis John Phillips, 67, of Charlotte, NC, passed away Thursday, April 23, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle against cancer.

Dennis was a big man in every sense of the word. At 6'6", Dennis was known for his charisma, compassion, and eternal optimism. His passion for life knew no bounds. He loved spending time with his family on Hilton Head Island, traveling the globe, improving healthcare, and cheering on the Virginia Tech Hokies. He also had an innate ability to inject laughter and levity at all the right times.

Born in Norton, Virginia in 1952 to Thomas and Frances Phillips, Dennis graduated high school as a United States Senate Page, earned a Bachelors degree from Virginia Tech, and a Masters degree from the Medical College of Virginia.

In his professional and civic life, Dennis loved to lead and care for others. Dennis spent over 40 years in healthcare administration, taking pride in improving the patient experience and increasing access to care.

Dennis started his career in healthcare administration in Florida and quickly became a hospital Chief Executive Officer at the age of 27. He later relocated to Hickory, North Carolina, where he served as CEO of Frye Regional Medical Center for 17 years. For many years, Frye was a top performer for Tenet Health under Dennis' leadership. His family recalls Dennis spending countless evenings reviewing hand-written patient experience surveys to ensure patient satisfaction.

Dennis transitioned to Carolinas HealthCare System in 2004, where he ended his career in 2017 as Executive Vice President. He was responsible for leading a number of hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and employees in the Charlotte Metro Region. Dennis was proud to be recognized with his induction into the StuderGroup Hall of Fame for Patient Experience Leadership in 2012. Colleagues will remember his honesty and respect for teammates at all levels.

Dennis also took on many civic and community duties, including Chairman of the Catawba Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the North Carolina Hospital Association, and member of Christ Episcopal Church Charlotte.

His greatest accomplishment was marrying his loving wife and best friend of over 44 years, Peggy Phillips. He is also survived by his children: Erin (Steven) Rogers, Patrick (Courtney) Phillips, and Caitlin (Jon) Gossens; grandchildren: Charlie, Jack, Francie, and Avery; brother Jeff (Crystal); and step-siblings David (Ann) Chaffins and Martha Perdue.

Above all, Dennis will be remembered for the joy he gave to everyone, his exuberant and infectious sense of humor, warmth, wit, generosity, consistency, and integrity.

Due to COVID-19 circumstances, services will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages well-wishers to donate to Levine Cancer Institute for small cell bladder cancer research or Hospice Care of the Lowcountry. Islandfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charlotte Observer on Apr. 26, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Dennis Phillips

12 Entries

Suzanne Kozel

August 15, 2020

I just learned about this from a former colleague. I retired from Tenet 3 years ago so have been out of touch in healthcare happenings! Dennis was a wonderful mentor and friend to me and I am so very very sad to hear this. He was a huge inspiration to me in my career and will be sorely missed. I am sitting here recalling many fond memories from various Tenet events and raising a glass of wine to his memory!

Jayne King

May 12, 2020

The photo of Dennis is so perfect -- with that great big smile that lit up his face as well as whatever room he happened to be in! Working with Dennis didn't feel like "work" because his joy, sense of humor and general love of life was contagious and made even the most stressful situations bearable. He was loyal, appreciative and kind and I will never forget this lovely man. I am raising a glass of Bombay Sapphire to you, Dennis (in my mind)!

Dean Cikins

April 29, 2020

Dennis was so kind and friendly to me when I started at GE Healthcare in Charlotte. He was approachable and spotted my VT ring right away. We always connected on VT football. I am sorry for your loss.

Tracey Dantuono

Planted Trees

Ken Nanney

April 29, 2020

I worked with Dennis at CHS. Dennis had a force and presence that could command a room. He will be missed.

Anne Davis

April 28, 2020

A diner human in everyway...I never met Gurney and I had great respect and friendship.Peggy and family great memories.

Deborah Nelson

April 26, 2020

Every time I had the opportunity to connect with Dennis he shared pearls of wisdom and oh could he make you laugh. He lit up a room. He always shared insight about his wife and family, he was so proud. My prayers are with Peggy and the entire Family.

Don Slagle

April 26, 2020

So sorry to lose a cousin. Our condolences.

Brenda Arthur

April 26, 2020

Peggy and family we are so sorry to hear this news. When I think of Dennis I think of his smile.
Sincere sympathy,
Brenda and Charlie Arthur

Paul and Rosemary Walker

April 26, 2020

I worked along side Dennis for 13 years as a contemporary hospital adminiistrator in the Carolina's. He was a superbly capable colleague and friend. His loss is a shock and a truly sad day. Our thoughts and prayers to Peggy and family. May peace be with you!

Paula and Joe Kessler - DiPaolo

April 26, 2020

Dennis was a wonderful leader and a gracious human being. His laugh was contagious and his friendship will be greatly missed. God bless Dennis, until we meet again.

Lisa Gregg

April 26, 2020

Erin and the Phillip's family, my heart breaks for your family. Your father was a superstar and will be missed by so many lives he improved and touched. It greatly hurts to lose your father at such a young age; I truly understand. Praying God brings you comfort and tears of joy remembering the beautiful memories you made over the years. With heartfelt condolences and many prayers.

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