Michael Warren Phillips

Michael W. Phillips, age 65, of Charleston, S.C. passed peacefully into the arms of his Savior on March 7, 2026, surrounded by loving family.
Michael Phillips was born on December 22, 1960, in Charleston, S.C. to Dr. Warren "Dub" and Evelyn Phillips. He spent most of his life in South Carolina with the exception of a few years he lived in Virginia Beach. While in Virginia Beach he won first place in the State as tenor singer. He was an accomplished stage pianist at Rock Church and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a bachelor's in business from Saint Leo University. He surrendered his life to the Lordship of Jesus at an early age.
A devoted follower of Christ, Michael lived his life as a shining example of God's grace, love, and joy. His deep faith was evident in everything he did, he had the heart of a Shepherd. For 34 years, he served with integrity and excellence in the insurance industry at National Teachers Association, where he was deeply loved and highly respected by colleagues and clients alike. His daily work became a powerful testimony of Christ's character - marked by honesty, compassion, and a genuine desire to help and bless others.
His loving kindness toward others will be what he is remembered for. Whether spending time with family and friends, or meeting a stranger, he was selfless in priority and compassionate to the needs of others. Michael found his greatest joy in time with Milton, his life partner of 30 years and the life they built together. He was a great host of family gatherings, loyal participant in their Seacoast small group, he was an avid reader and lover of music. As a true American Patriot, he was passionate about the hope of Jesus as the remedy for our nation.
Michael was preceded in death by his father "Dub" Phillips; and brother-in-law, Mario Marasigan. He is survived by his loving spouse, Milton Kolwyck; his mother Evelyn Phillips; his sisters, Lisa Marasigan and Terri Phillips; and 3 dear nieces, Heather Young (Andy); Kendall Armitage (Joshua); Kaitlyn Cole (Isaac); and a nephew Wynn Phillips (Angela); great nieces and nephews, James Phillips, Davis Young, Ruby Young, Kinley Woolard, Margot Armitage, Cassidy Cole, Bodhi Armitage.
Michael touched countless lives with his kindness, laughter, and unwavering trust in the Lord. Whether through, delivering toys to children who lost a parent, meals to the homeless or supporting pro-life non-profits he reflected the light of Christ and left a legacy of faith that will continue to bear fruit for generations.
In a final, beautiful act of Christ-like generosity and love, Michael chose to become an organ donor. Through this selfless gift, he extended the precious gift of life and renewed hope to others, allowing his legacy of compassion and faith to continue touching and blessing lives even after he entered eternity.
Though we grieve his physical absence, we do not mourn as those who have no hope. We celebrate that Michael has now received the greatest promise of all - eternal life with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is now whole, healed, and rejoicing in the presence of God, where "there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain" (Revelation 21:4).
A Celebration of Life service will be held on April 11 at 11:00am at Seacoast Church West Ashley, 2049 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, S.C. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Michael's memory to Seacoast Church West Ashley.
"We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord." - 2 Corinthians 5:8
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints." - Psalm 116:15

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