John Phillips

John Edwin Phillips of Carbon Hill, passed away unexpectedly on December 5, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on December 28, 1941, to the late Edwin and Helen (Edmondson) Phillips, John's life was a testament to the values of hard work, love, and the simple joys of life. John was a devoted husband to his adoring wife, Dorothy Phillips, for 27 beautiful years. His legacy continues through his children, Kevin (Patsy) Phillips, Kristan (Greg) Smolenski, Kelli (Joel) Kos, and Colleen (Gary) Bockholdt. His grandchildren, Kyler (Courtney) Phillips, Mackenzie (Jordan) Anderson, Madison Phillips, Keegan Slagle, Caden Kos, Tanner Kos, Jen (Cary) Fritz, and Victoria Residori, as well as his nine great-grandchildren, will forever cherish the memories and life lessons he imparted. John is also survived by his sisters, Barbara Johnson and Dianne (Jack) Kanne. John is preceded in death by his parents, his brother-in-law Robert Johnson, and his grandson Konnor Phillips. John worked for Caterpillar in Joliet for over 33 years. His commitment to his work was matched only by his passion for the family farm. There, he raised cattle with his son and farmed alongside his father, uncle, son, and cousins. This connection to the land and his family's agricultural heritage was a source of immense pride and joy for John. John's favorite pastime was spending time in his boat, fishing on the lakes of Northern Wisconsin. These tranquil moments, shared with family and fishing buddies, were among his most cherished. His love for his family extended to his four-legged friend, Molly, who was a constant companion in his adventures, moments of relaxation or just watching the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, or the Fighting Illini Basketball. He also found great pleasure in restoring antique farm equipment, a hobby that allowed him to connect with history and preserve the machinery that had been a part of his family's farming life. In Lieu of flowers donations may be made in John's name to either the Grundy County 4-H at https://extension.illinois.edu/gkw or Morris VFW Post 6049. A celebration of John's life will be held privately with his family. Inurnment will be held at a later date. An online guestbook has been made for the family, where you may sign the guestbook, share memories and photographs. You can access this by visiting the website at www.ucdaviscallahan.com. Arrangements have been entrusted with U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris, IL.