James E. Phillips

James "Jim" Edward Phillips, age 93 of Saint Marys, peacefully finished his journey to heaven in the presence of his family on July 25, 2025 at Otterbein Senior Life, St. Marys, Ohio. Jim was born on December 28, 1931, in Warsaw, Indiana, to the late Lawrence and Kathryn (Thompson) Phillips. He married his high school sweetheart, Betty Jean Norris, on July 27, 1952. She passed away on February 26, 2022. They were married nearly 70 years.
He is survived by his sons, Dr. Stephen (Rachael) Phillips of Upland, IN and Dr. Brad (Mary Kay) Phillips of Lexington, KY; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Frank) Sabelhaus, CAPT C. Ryan (Andrea) Phillips, Christy (Bryan) Dam, Julia (Rafael) Guerrero, Dr. David (Janelle) Phillips and Sarah (Timothy) Hollihan. He also has 14 great-grandchildren. His sister, Molly (Phillips) Warren, survives in Leesburg, Indiana.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister Peggy Phillips.
After graduating from Warsaw High School, Jim served in the U.S. Air Force as a staff sergeant. He graduated from Indiana University and worked in management for several industries, including Cummins Engine Company, Arvin, Hamilton Cosco, and Huffy. He also worked for Otterbein and was the driving force behind the Tree of Hope, a special Christmas tradition that has benefitted many Otterbein residents through its Benevolence Fund.
Jim was active in his church and community throughout his long life, often serving in leadership roles. He was a people person who never knew a stranger. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a special place in his heart. An avid fan of Indiana University sports, Jim also enjoyed reading, traveling, and playing cards.
A celebration of Jim's life will begin at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Lehman-Dzendzel Funeral Home with Rev. John Medaugh officiating. Family and friends may call from 12:00 P.M. - 1:00 P.M. on Saturday before services at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions may be directed to Grand Lake Hospice 1122 E. Spring St. St. Marys, OH 45885 or the Tree of Life Benevolence Fund at Otterbein, St. Marys. Condolences may be shared with the Phillips family at www.lehmandzendzelfh.com.