Harold Wayne Phillips

In Loving Memory of Harold Wayne Phillips April 27, 1937 – July 2, 2025

Harold Wayne Phillips, age 88, of Garland, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on July 2, 2025.

Wayne was born on April 27, 1937, in Garland, Texas, to William Elbert Phillips and Gladys Pearl (Cook) Phillips.

He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. His courageous service earned him several commendations, including the Navy Commendation Medal and the Marksmanship Medal, among others. Throughout his naval career, he served on numerous ships, including the USS Floyds Bay, USS Point Cruz, and USS Shangri-La.

After his military service, Wayne became a beloved local figure at Deuback Skating Rink in Vickery, Texas—fondly remembered as “hell on wheels.” He later transitioned to a career in transportation, becoming a long-haul truck driver with C&H Transportation’s Heavy Haul division. Over the course of his career, Wayne logged more than six million accident-free miles, earning numerous awards for his outstanding safety record. He was eventually promoted to Trailer Shop Foreman and went on to teach driver safety courses, sharing his knowledge and dedication with others.

Wayne also had a lifelong love of acting. As a child, he appeared in the Our Gang Comedy series titled The Kidnappers Foil. While in the Navy, he was cast in the 1956 military film Launch 'Em. In his later years, he returned to the screen with appearances in popular television series including Walker, Texas Ranger and Prison Break. One of the highlights of this chapter in his life was meeting and befriending his longtime idol, actor Stuart Whitman. The two shared a deep bond and spent many hours together discussing their lives and shared passions.

Wayne will be remembered for his kind heart, his readiness to help anyone in need, and his incredible storytelling—especially the unbelievable, yet true, tales from his days on the road. He had a gift for connecting with people and earned the respect and friendship of many across the country.

He is survived by his loving daughter Nancy Nicodemus; sons Evan Jerome Phillips and adopted son Richard Earl Phillips; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Anthony (Tony) Phillips.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, William Elbert and Gladys Pearl (Cook) Phillips; his sister Francis Phillips Elder; his son Nicholas Wayne Phillips; and his wives—Mary (Crow, Phillips) Bredlau, Mary Alice (Moser) Phillips and Janet Elaine (Montpas) Phillips. His Son Gary & Shirley Phillips (son) and Austin Wayne Phillips (grandson).

Wayne’s absence leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. It is difficult to put into words what will be missed most about someone who was always there, who always had your back, and who cheered you on through every chapter of life.