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BORN
1960
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
Eric Phillips Obituary
May 21, 1960 - September 23, 2025
Eric Vance Phillips, 65, of Newton, N.C., passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Caromont Regional Medical Center. Born May 21, 1960, he was the son of the late James Edward Phillips and Nancy Kirby Phillips.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Monica Long Phillips, of the home; his children, Kirby (Jake) Orr, of Maggie Valley, N.C., Baker Phillips, of Boone, N.C., and Jett Phillips, of Hickory, N.C.; his sisters, Jan Phillips, Kristy Johnston (Jeff), and Blair Phillips, of Mount Pleasant, S.C.; and his brother, Jason Phillips (Beth), of Matthews, N.C. He is also survived by grandsons, Hayden and Bentley; and many treasured lifelong friends.
He was most recently employed by Woda Cooper as a project manager. He also worked with Kearey Builders and Parker General Contractors on various projects in Western North Carolina. Previously, he was a Senior Project Manager with Atriax PLLC where he oversaw projects on United States Air Force bases in Okinawa, Japan, Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Georgia. Besides being with his family, Eric was happiest when he was casting a line into mountain streams or tidal waters, hiking pristine trails, or embracing one of his many hobbies like bird watching, photography, throwing darts with his team, or listening to live music. He cherished his friendships with lifelong mates and was a solid and faithful guy to all who loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James Edward Phillips and Nancy Kirby Phillips.
A memorial service will be conducted on October 11, 2025, at 10 a.m., at Jenkins Funeral Home. His siblings will host a Celebration of Life on October 11 from 1 to 3 p.m., at City Walk Brewing in downtown Hickory, and invite his friends to come and share a toast in his memory.
Memorials may be made to The Leukemia And Lymphoma Society or the Mountains to Sea Trail.
Please sign the online guestbook on the Memorial Wall at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The Phillips family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Newton 828-464-1555.
Jenkins Funeral Home
4081 Startown Rd Newton, NC 28658
Memories and Condolences
for Eric Phillips
Sponsored by Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
3 Entries
Jan Elise Phillips
October 8, 2025
Dear Eric, You are certainly sorely missed by family and many friends. I'm going to miss the phone calls, laughs, sharing good music and fishing in Charleston. You've been a good brother and I miss you very much. It's hard to believe you're not here anymore. Rest in peace and be happy in heaven. I love you. Your sister, Jan
James Robinson
October 7, 2025
Eric was always a true friend and always looked out for people he met. His smile and friendship will be missed. Jim and Rebecca Robinson
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Memorial Events
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Oct
11
Funeral services provided by:
Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service4081 Startown Road, Newton, NC 28658
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