Ernest D. Phillips, Sr.

Troy

Ernest D. Phillips, Sr., 65, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 3, 2025 at home with his loving family by his side. Ernest was the son of the late Kenneth and Marlene (Bulson) Phillips.

Ernie was the caretaker of The Faith Lutheran Church in Troy for nearly two decades. In the past he partnered with his late brother Jerry in both trucking and roofing. 15 years laboring at the Town of Brunswick while being a master arborist with one of his best friends Steve Mason. And even 10 years building up a list of complaints working as a maintenance man at the NYS Assembly. You could say he was a jack of all trades.

He cherished nothing more than spending time with his grandson, Ryker and granddaughter, Keira.

Beyond that, was his passion for the mountains. Specifically, Indian Lake, NY where he camped, canoed, fished, and explored with his children, family, and friends. He LOVED time with all of his siblings, laughing busting balls, but most of all making MOMENTS.

As much as he didn't enjoy the beach, he absolutely loved visiting his daughter in Florida. Sitting on the patio, sipping red bull & vodka making animal friends and doing his cashword scratchies to his heart's content. He always had a passion for listening to music, especially the Grateful Dead. He loved watching lil' Ernie and Amanda's ball games, yelling at them from the sidelines WHILE cheering them on to win. One of his fondest childhood memories was going to the Disney Bowl for his championship football game. He was a man of many CUSS words and was immensely loved by so many.

In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his brothers, Kenny, Paul and Jerry Phillips.

He is survived by his children, Ernest (Kristen) Phillips, Jr. and Amanda (Adam) Whitman. He was the proud grandfather of Keira and Ryker Phillips. His siblings, Janis (Glenn) Coonradt, Mark (Ruth Fredericks) Phillips, Kim (Ken) Erickson, Kelly (John) Hostettler, Dana (Dave) Cerrone and his sisters in law Shelia Phillips and Kim Phillips. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and close friends.

A memorial service will be held at The Faith Lutheran Church on Thursday October 9, 2025 at 10am, 50 Leverseen Road, Troy, NY. Proceeded by a celebration of Life held at the Poestenkill VFW, 25 Veterans Street Poestenkill, NY 12140 following the service at 3pm for food and drinks.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St.Jude's Children's Hospital.

Please honor our Dad by dressing casual, wear your favorite Grateful Dead tie-dye t-shirt or flannel.