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BORN
1936
DIED
2012
FUNERAL HOME
Joseph Phillips Obituary
Joe proudly served in the U.S. Marines (Semper Fi). He joined the ranks of the Houston Fire Department in August 1962, serving under 16 chiefs and holding many positions, including Public Information Officer, during his tenure. He retired from the fire department on April 1, 2011, after 48 years and 8 months of dedicated service. Joe was a member of the Reagan Masonic Lodge #1037, the Scottish Rite, and American Legion Post #560.
Joe never met a stranger in his life; he had jokes, stories, and expressions like no other. He had many hobbies and talents that kept him in the shade of his carport for hours on end, but within sight of everyone who came down the street. Rarely a person passed who didn't stop to talk to Joe or at least honk and wave. He was a master woodworker, and he never met an engine (lawnmower or otherwise) he couldn't fix. He was a history buff who reveled in sharing his knowledge of Houston and points beyond. In the last several years, Joe loved riding his Harley to visit old friends at the neighborhood fire station, stopping in to visit friends or acquaintances at retirement centers, and making new friends along the way. He was proud of his family, his service to the U.S. Marines, and his years of service to the Houston Fire Department.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Otto "Barney" and Aline (Gregson) Philips, brother, William "Bill" Phillips, and sister, Sarah Gum.
Joe was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Patricia "Pat" Lindsay Phillips; children, Cynthia Laskowski and husband Alton of Spring, Michael Phillips and wife Brenda of Spring, Stacey Osceola and husband Bryant of Tomball; grandchildren, Valerie and Lindsay Laskowski and Alex, Brent, and Hannah Phillips; as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, March 15th, from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the chapel of Pat H. Foley & Co. A service to celebrate Joe's life will be held at 12:30 pm on Friday, March 16th, at Champion Forest Baptist Church, 15555 Stuebner-Airline Rd., Houston 77069. Interment will follow at Houston National Cemetery at 2:30 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children Houston; Shriners Hospitals for Children, Galveston - Burns Unit; or a charity of choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Phillips
MARY MAUK
April 8, 2021
Hard to believe this much time has passed but I see Joe in my life everyday. He was a great wood worker and made several things for Raymond and me. They are on display in our yard. He was a lovely and thoughtful man and is really missed.
Hilary Grizzaffi Morgan
March 21, 2012
Thinking of you all daily ...
Hilary Grizzaffi Morgan
Leslie Conrads
March 19, 2012
Pat, I was so sorry to here of your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family at this time of such great loss.
Joan Ellzey Martin
March 17, 2012
It has been twenty years since I have seen Joe. I will never forget the wonderful man and neighbor he was. Your family is in my prayers always.
Monica Atchison Pali & family
March 17, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. We are sorry for your loss.
March 15, 2012
Pat, I am so sorry for your loss. I have included you and your family in my prayers. May God bless you.
Verna Montgomery
Melissa Pennington
March 15, 2012
Joe was a wonderful man that spread goodwill through his actions and contagious laughter. The bible says, "I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good as long as they live;" Ecclesiastes 3:12 ESV. This verse fits Joe well. Joe and Patricia have done so many wonderful things for me and my grandfather Jack Lindsay, who passed away in 2006. There are not enough words to express my gratitude.
I never had an encounter with Joe where there was no laughter. He always had a story to tell and was never afraid to speak his mind.
Patricia, Cynthia, Stacey and Michael, please know you are in my prayers. May the Lord bless you during this time of sorrow. Joe lived a good life here with us on earth and has moved on to his eternal life in heaven. He will be missed, but never forgotten.
Melissa Pennington
March 15, 2012
Joe was a wonderful man that spread goodwill through his actions and contagious laughter. The bible says, "I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good as long as they live;" Ecclesiastes 3:12 ESV. This verse fits Joe well. Joe and Patricia have done so many wonderful things for me and my grandfather Jack Lindsay, who passed away in 2006. There are not enough words to express my gratitude.
I never had an encounter with Joe where there was no laughter. He always had a story to tell and was never afraid to speak his mind. I can only imagine the faces of his friends and family when he arrived in heaven. I'm sure he already has the Lord shaking his head snickering, and everyone reminding him of where he is. ;)
Patricia, Cynthia, Stacey and Michael, please know you are in my prayers. May the Lord bless you during this time of sorrow. Joe lived a good life here with us on earth and has moved on to his eternal life in heaven. He will be missed, but never forgotten.
Hilary (Grizzaffi) Morgan
March 15, 2012
Thinking of you Joe & praying for your family.
Dawanda Lauder Clark
March 14, 2012
Joe, Your face & voice will forever bless my memories whenever I hear anyone say, "Hey Baby!" I will miss the man who took me for my very 1st motorcycle ride, on a Harley of course. I was about 13 yrs old & we cruised TC Jester & I felt like we were famous. Joe, you are more than famous; you have been a "Star" in the lives of many people you have met & helped. I hope your are neighbors once again with my mom, Laura Leigh & Aunt Frances in Our Father's heavenly home. Hugs & love to Patricia.
March 14, 2012
I looked forward to going to work in accounting at the fire department knowing Joe would keep you laughing the whole day. He truly never met a stranger. Joe will greatly be missed. May the family find peace in the coming days.
Anna Townsend
HFD Retiree
Todd Winkel
March 14, 2012
My mother informed me of Joe's death. I'm sorry to hear this news. Joe was a good friend of my uncle Walther. I can only imagine what kind of greeting Walther gave to Joe when he arrived in heaven. I'm so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
March 14, 2012
My condolences go out to the family of Mr. Philips. May you be comforted by knowing that your dear loved one has the wonderful prospect of resuming life again free from all causes of death and the grief that follows.
Stacey Osceola
March 14, 2012
Dad,
Thank you for being the best father, friend and teacher. You never met a stranger and you knew people everywhere you went..even as far as Jamaica! You were the first man I ever loved and my heart aches just to hear your voice and see your smiling face. Thank you for the loving us.
I will always love and miss you!
Stacey
Matthew Lauder
March 14, 2012
I could never have had a better neighbor and friend than Joe. I learned how to be a good person from him. I learned how to work on engines and build things from him in his driveway.. Patricia and Joe where a God send to this world. My boys and I consider you as family. Joe was a happy man who loved everyone. We love you Patricia as we do Joe. If you need anything call me.
Wayne Gum
March 14, 2012
To Patricia, Cynthia, Michael, and Stacey - I am so sorry for your loss.
Your Dad, Uncle Joe to me - was truly a larger than life person - I have thought about his passing a lot in the past week, and have come to this conclusion ------- Things just got a lot more lively in Heaven, and a lot more dull in Houston, Texas with the loss of your Dad. When he arrived at the gates of Heaven, there was a line of people there to welcome him as far as the eye could see - and all of them were smiling, and any tears were tears of joy. He would not want us to mourn for him, he would want us to continue to move forward. I loved him very much - Cousin Wayne
Rachel Lauder-Brumfield
March 14, 2012
Patricia, You are in my thoughts and prayers. I always enjoyed my visits with you and Joe. He was always a joy to be around....God bless your family in this time of sorrow.
Brittany Smith
March 14, 2012
I'll miss you so much uncle Joe! I love you and rest in peace.
March 14, 2012
May family and friends bring comfort and may time bring peace. Everett & Deidre Harkless
Rita Putman
March 14, 2012
Pat, I am so sorry for your loss. although I haven't talked to Joe in years I still remember his jokes and laughter and his enjoyment of life. My condolences to you and your family. Rita Crain Putman
Bonnie Griffin
March 14, 2012
Too soon.... you are truly missed Uncle Joe!
Deepest sympathy to the family.
Love, Bonnie & Christopher
Lisa Posey
March 14, 2012
My deepest sympathies to the Phillips family. Thank you for your Service Mr. Joe.
don clark
March 14, 2012
Joe and I came thought the class of 62. He was the Roger Dangerfield of the Fire Dept. Always had a big smile and a kind word for you. Everyone loved Joe and his presents will be greatly missed.
God be with you all; D. R. Clark
March 14, 2012
Pat,
I am so sorry for your loss; please accept my condolences and please convey such to your family.
Judy Stromsted (member, HGF)
March 14, 2012
Joe and I came thought the class of 62. He was the Roger Dangerfield of the Fire Dept. Always had a big smile and a kind word for you. Everyone loved Joe and his presents will be greatly missed.
God be with you all; D. R. Clark
Marsha Zwernemann
March 14, 2012
Patricia,my dear friend, my thoughts and prayers are with you in this your time of sorrow. I am so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. I will never forget the fun and memories we had together in our younger days.It is true Joe never met a stranger...
Thanks For The Yesterday's
My Heart
Still Holds In It's Pockets.
God Bless!
Melissa Saenz-Aguirre
March 14, 2012
When I'd call my sister at work, I always loved when Joe answered the phone instead of her. He made me laugh countless times and I enjoyed our chats. It always felt as if he was part of our family...Joe will be missed.
Gloria Wright Russell
March 14, 2012
Dearest Pat,
My heartfelt sympathy is extended to you and your family.
In friendship, my prayers are extended as you and your family get through this difficult time. May your loving memories bring you comfort today and in the days to come.
Your Houston Genealogical Forum friend,
Sophia Everitt
March 14, 2012
Cynthia,
I am sorry for your loss.
Give my love to your family.
Sincerely,
Sophia Everitt
Ned & Montie Watkins
March 13, 2012
Pat and family, "May the peace that passeth all understanding," be with you in the loss of your beloved husband, father, and friend, Joe!
Capt.Eddie & Tina Bell
March 13, 2012
We are so very sorry for the loss of such a special person. He will be missed by many.
March 13, 2012
Our deepest sympathy to all of your family and friends. One of God's greatest gifts is a lifetime of treasured memories. Margie and Lee Forster (Houston TX)
Steven Whitehorn
March 13, 2012
Joe, you truly had a gift that brought joy to all that knew you. So many in HFD were touched by your great personallity. Joe, you will be missed.
Jennifer
March 13, 2012
Margret and I have so many memories of laughter, bickering, and adventure. Even just a quick phone call would have me laughing. We couldn't go anywhere without you running into someone you knew. You touched so many lives, you were a good hearted person and a great friend. I will miss you so much! Patrica, my deepest sympathy and prayers are with you and your family.
no he did not eat all.someone asked if there was any left
Margret Wishert
March 13, 2012
Jennifer and I have special memories of "JO BABY " which is what I called him and he would grin to no end. We had many a brown bag lunch together At Dart Street. And the chatter. We had discussions on every topic. We beat Oprah in the ratings category.Joe made sure that everyone got where they needed to go or be, even if he had to take them there. Which was most of the time and pick you up. We will never forget you "JO BABY"
Semper Fi!
Willie Nelson, Jr - HFD 31/C
March 12, 2012
There is no story like a Joe Phillip's story! Your honesty, wisdom, comedy, and persona will truly be missed. A can honesty say that your departure leaves a HUGE HOLE in my heart. I will always remember you as my friend, brother, and role model. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner will never be the same @ 31-C Shift. "Joe Phillips in da House!" , your plate is on the table!
Jay Daniels
March 12, 2012
Joe, I will always treasure the many times at 31's you turned a long day into tears of laughter. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and the history of HFD with us. Most of all Joe, thank you for your friendship, it was an honor to me. You, my friend, will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace Joe!
Capt. O.
March 12, 2012
Brother Joe , you are a man of Honor and Respect ! I am missn you at our Station. You put a smile on my face and made me laugh at the drop of a hat, thats a gift ! What a memory you have and the knowledge you passed on, Love Ya Joe! Peace O.
Eileen Howell
March 12, 2012
Joe, we can hardly believe it's true! It doesn't seem possible that we won't soon hear that Harley coming down the street or the honk of your truck horn in the driveway announcing your arrival or your greeting of "Hey Baby" as you come through the door. I loved our friendly sparing and your constant attempt to surprise me with something you thought would shock me. We're going to miss those Saturday morning breakfasts and Saturday evenings around the barbecue pit. We greatly value our relationship with you and Patricia.
Your Book of Life is closed now. Our prayers are offered for those you leave behind - that they will cherish the memory that was Joe Phillips: Husband, Father, Father-in-Law, Grandfather, Marine, Fireman, Harley Dude and Good Friend. We miss you so much already, Buddy!
Eileen and Harold (Buster) Howell
Hilary (Grizzaffi) Morgan
March 12, 2012
Patricia & Family,
Words cannot express the hurt I am feeling for your family. Joe will be greatly missed. Praying for strength for you all ...
Joe,
You will be missed tremendously by our family. I will never forget the day you took me, Zoey & Wendy around to the fire stations to have pictures made for daddy for Christmas. We had so much fun hanging out with you & lunch at Long John Silvers. When it comes to Zoey, she will always remember you calling (or hollaring, haha) at her, from baby on, "ZO!!! HEY ZO!!! HEY!!!" Ha! There are just so many memories of visits under your carport and visits Zoey & I made to you and Dad at the HFD office you shared. But most of all, I will never, ever forget the "biker hand wave" you taught me, and from here on out, I will always remember your "wave" every time we pass a fellow biker. You showed us we weren't doing it right!! Lol, so as I bring this to a close, I will give you that "wave" and say "Until we meet again friend ..." Love you always & forever.
Hilary (Grizzaffi) Morgan & family
(Daughter of Frankie Grizzaffi)
March 12, 2012
To the family and friends of Joe Phillips. Joe was a wonderful person and true friend. Raymond and I feel so blessed to have been close to Joe and his family. We cherish all the wonderful times, fun and laughter Joe brought into our lives. We know he is with the Lord and will be forever laughing and smiling now. Know that we too feel your loss and are here to comfort you.
Love, Mary Ann and Raymond Mauk
March 12, 2012
Pat and family,
Joe was a person that made you glad to come to work. He was a great friend and best PIO officer ever. I truly loved being around Joe. I will miss him and will remember the great times we had together at the Fire Chiefs conventions...never a dull moment with Joe. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Robert and Ellen Clayton
Virginia "Jennie" Smith
March 12, 2012
We will miss you Uncle Joe.
Jennie and Brittany
Trevia Wooster Beverly
March 12, 2012
Pat, Murphy and I are praying for you and the family during this time. God is present and He will comfort all of you.
~ Trevia
March 12, 2012
I knew Joe from being a fellow Houston firefighter and considered him a friend. Joe was a jolly guy who was a pleasure to be around. So sad to hear of his passing. Ray Mayo, HFD retired.
Mary Lou Krzywicki
March 12, 2012
I worked at HFD on Dart Street and knew Joe very well. He always was smiling and even though he hurt he would never let it get him down. Joe I will miss your high for life and your smile.
To the family my deepest of condolences goes out to you. He will always be in our hearts.
Mary Lou Guerra Krzywicki
HFD Retiree
March 11, 2012
A sad time for all of us who were fortunate to know Joe. God bless all of you at this sad time.
Johnnie Richie-Little
Michael Phillips
March 11, 2012
Dad,
You have always been a great father, friend, and inspiration in my life. You shared the joy in your life with those you loved and those you just met. You lived your life in an honorable way, never met a stranger, and loved your family with all your heart.
I love you.
Tom Shankle
March 11, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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