Bobby Ross Phillips

Bobby Ross Phillips Jr., known affectionately as Ross to his friends and "Dan" to his family, was called to his eternal home on February 3, 2026, at the age of 63. Ross will be remembered as a man raised in faith with a strong moral compass, a kind heart and an understated dry wit. He passed away in Austin, Texas surrounded by family after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and faith.

Ross was born in Adel, Georgia to Bobby Ross and Barbara Newsom Phillips on February 23, 1962. Growing up, he was an avid athlete, playing baseball, basketball, golf, and football, where his competitive spirit and strong work ethic were born. He was active in his church youth program and choir - he never missed an opportunity to "try" to harmonize. Along with many boys his age, he cropped tobacco in the summers. In true Ross fashion, he managed to make many fond (and some not so fond) memories of those hot summers. A dedicated student, Ross balanced academics with athletics, earning the respect of teachers, coaches, and teammates alike. He shared a special bond with his dad, Bobby, and treasured many Saturdays spent attending Troy State football games together.

From the time he was 9 years old Ross knew he was going to be a Trojan. He earned his Bachelor's degree in mathematics and computer science from Troy State University, and was later inducted to the Shield Society as a distinguished alumni. His education laid the foundation for a career in the energy/utilities sector. Ross began his professional journey at Bell South in Birmingham, where he honed his skills in operations. After moving to Texas he received his Master's degree in mathematics from Texas State and then accepted a job at LCRA as a programmer. His dedication, expertise and leadership skills led to his rise through the ranks, ultimately serving as the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of LCRA Transmission Services Corporation.

Ross's influence extended beyond his immediate professional circle. He was honored by his peers with the role of chairman of the ERCOT Reliability and Operations Subcommittee. His commitment to excellence and his strategic vision were further recognized through his service on the North American Electric Reliability Corporation's Operating Committee. He played a pivotal role in shaping electric utility operating standards across North America. In the twilight of his career, he served as deputy and interim General Manager of LCRA, a testament to the trust and respect he earned throughout his career.

Ross was blessed with a loving family who were the cornerstone of his life. He shared 38 beautiful years of marriage with his devoted wife, Susan Mouton Phillips, and was a proud father to his three children, sons Michael and Andrew and his daughter Laura. Ross and Susan met after college when both were vacationing on a Windjammer sailboat cruise in the Caribbean. They were living several states apart but made the long distance dating work and married 2 years later. After the wedding Ross moved to Texas where Susan was living to attend graduate school.

A devout Christian, Ross lived his faith through his actions and his unwavering commitment to his beliefs. His faith was the compass that guided him through life's challenges and triumphs.

He and Susan joined Tarrytown United Methodist Church and quickly got involved by helping with the youth group. An unintended blessing of volunteering with the MYF was becoming friends with parents of the youth. These friends have always supported the family during Ross' health struggles. He served on multiple church committees and taught 5th grade Sunday school for many years. He and Susan made lifelong friends in their Wesley Sunday School Class. These friends have provided steadfast love, support and kindness since his original diagnosis in 1998.

College football season was Ross' favorite time of the year. He was an ardent supporter of his beloved alma mater, Troy, and spent many Saturdays hunting for a livestream of their games. Ross loved playing golf, and though never close to being a scratch golfer, he just enjoyed being on a course with friends. Ross became an "instant expert" in swimming and tennis as Michael, Andrew, and Laura competed in those sports. He never missed a match, meet, or championship and even celebrated his 50th birthday watching Michael at his college championships. Music filled his home, heart, and iPad, and reflected his eclectic taste in music. Above all, Ross loved moments spent with family and friends, believing that fellowship was the mark of a life well-lived.

Ross' wisdom, kindness, and quiet courage will be remembered by all who had the privilege of journeying with him through his multiple health struggles. Ross' life was a testament to the values he held dear – love, integrity, and service to others. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, we celebrate the indelible mark he has left on our hearts. His spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, just as it did throughout his remarkable life.

Ross is preceded in death by his parents Bobby Ross Sr. and Barbara Newsom Phillips. He is survived by his devoted wife Susan Mouton Phillips, his children Michael (Victoria Davis), Andrew (Katie), and Laura Douthitt (Trey); granddaughter Vivianne; and brother Phil (Jenny) and devoted best friend Scott Denman (Donna) and a multitude of loving family and steadfast friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Tarrytown United Methodist Church with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Bobby Ross and Butch Phillips "Trojan Pride" Endowed Scholarship. Online donations can be made by going to: https://donate.troy.edu/phillips

Checks can be made to the Troy University Foundation (memo line - Phillips Trojan Pride Scholarship), and mailed to:

Troy University Foundation

304 Adams Admin. Bldg.

Troy, AL 36082