Philip Keith Widner

Our precious son Philip Keith Widner died tragically in an aircraft accident on Monday, October 7, 2024. Our grief is almost unbearable, but we know that he is dancing with the angels. Philip is survived by his parents Danny and Beverly Widner, his extended family and an army of friends.

Philip's notorious reputation for usually being tardy began early in life. He was born seven days late on April 7, 1987, in Dallas Texas. This glorious event answered five years of prayer for a beautiful baby. Philip grew up in Coppell, Texas, surrounded by wonderful neighbors, friends, and his church family at FUMC Coppell. Our family life was special - we had fun, laughed together, traveled and enjoyed being together. It really was a wonderful life! Philip thrived at school - enjoying sports and academics and had some admiring young ladies.

Philip's world expanded when he followed in his cousin Jake's footsteps and went off to college at Oklahoma State University. There he made many lifelong friends, especially his Fiji fraternity brothers. He never gave up on his OSU Cowboys winning the national football championship! (We're still waiting!) Through the magic of cell phones and texting Phil communicated and remained close with many of his buddies. He was an expert at managing multiple conversations at once! He was also dedicated to his fantasy football leagues.

After graduating college Philip worked in finance and the oil and gas industry. Not feeling really challenged or satisfied he took a leap of faith and began his dream of becoming a commercial pilot. He trained in Arlington, Texas, and went on to become a flight instructor in Oklahoma City. He was blessed to live with his extraordinary Aunt Juju in OKC and had a wonderful instructing experience. He was admired for his skills as a pilot and ability to teach and communicate. He had found his passion! He later flew for cargo companies in Brownwood, TX, and Omaha, NE.

Philip exemplified the phrase "he never met a stranger". He had a kind word for everyone and truly loved his neighbors. And everyone loved him. Philip's great sense of humor kept us entertained and his sarcasm kept us on our toes! He was rather famous for his dancing moves at wedding parties!

A devoted son, he used his Mr. Fix-it skills to keep our home and yard in working order along with all our tech challenges. He loved our family farm in East Texas and spending time with his cousins cutting down trees, fishing and hunting hogs. It won't be the same there without him!

Philip is predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Harold and Mabel Allred, and his paternal grandparents, Martin and Margaret Widner. Besides his parents he is survived by his Aunt Judy Wilkins, Uncle Larry Widner (Susan). He will be sorely missed by his cousins Melyssa Donahue, Josh Hunt (Suzanne), Darlene Widner, Darrell Widner (Kendall), Allie O'Connor (Kelly) and Jake Wilkins (Jamie). He is also known as Unka Phil to his cousin's children - Claire O'Connor, Crawford O'Connor, Charlie O'Connor, J. Henry Wilkins, Wesley Wilkins, Lucy Wilkins and Eli Wilkins, Landon Widner, Karson Widner and Aubrie Widner. AND his bestest canine girlfriend of 14 years, sweet Pepper.

Philip's celebration of life will be Friday, October 18, 2024, at 1:00 pm at First United Methodist Church Coppell, 420 S. Heartz Road, Coppell Texas. Inurnment will be at Rolling Oaks Memorial Center Cemetery, 400 Freeport Pkwy, Coppell, Texas, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers you may donate to PilotsNPaws.org or Coppell Cares at First United Methodist Coppell, fumccoppell.org.

John 14:1-3: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me."