James E. "Eddie" Phillips

James Edward "Eddie" Phillips, 87, of Napoleon, Ohio, passed away in the arms of his Savior on Jan. 5, 2026.

He was born on Nov. 26, 1938, in Toledo, Ohio, to the late James and Gladys (Beard) Phillips.

Eddie worked as a bridge and road construction foreman for more than 50 years with Wren Reese, Launder and Son, and E.S. Wagner. He was known for his dedication and meticulous work ethic, qualities that carried over into how he lived his life and cared for his family.

In his free time, Eddie enjoyed working in the yard and tinkering in his garage. He was a faithful member of the Free Christian Church of God in Continental, Ohio, where he also took part in the construction of the new church. He and Chloe also enjoyed visiting local churches for gospel bands and artists.

Eddie is survived by his daughter, Patricia (Doug) Hill of Liberty Center, Ohio; grandchildren, Katie (Phillip) Wenzel, Sara Hill, Tyler (Colleen) Hill, Tessa (Scott) Blesch, Nicholas Phillips, Ashlynn Phillips; great-grandchildren, Chloe, Gretchen, Oliver, Penny, Elsie, Noah, Auden, Harley, Charlie, Hunter, and Addison; his sister, Louella (Stephen Clymer) Sabel; and his sister-in-law, Beverly Phillips.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Chloe; his son, Tony; infant daughter, Pamela; his brother, Robert Phillips; and his brother-in-law, Jack Sabel.

Funeral services will be held at noon on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, at Rodenberger-Gray Funeral Home in Napoleon, Ohio. Visitation will take place from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will follow at Young Cemetery in Liberty Center, Ohio.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Victory Chapel Church.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.rodenbergergray.com.