Philip J. Columbus

At the age of 100, Philip John Columbus, WWII US Navy Veteran, was welcomed into Heaven on September 16, 2025. Phil was born in Yorkville, OH on May 20, 1925.

In 1953, he moved to NLR, AR where he met the love of his life, Frances. They married on October 15, 1955 and were coming up on celebrating 70 years together. Phil loved to be surrounded by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Frances, two children: Tony Columbus (Susan) and Tina Henry (Max), 6 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren, with two more on the way. He is also survived by three sisters.

Phil loved to garden, trips to the casino and was known for his birthday cakes while serving as a cook on the USS San Jacinto (CVL-30). Phil was someone who made everybody feel like somebody. He never met a stranger and loved everyone. Throughout his life, Phil displayed what it means to be servant-hearted. Whether that be through St. Patrick’s Catholic Church or his community, he was always willing to help those in need. His smile, kindness, quick wit and love for life are what he will be most remembered for.

Visitation will be held Sunday, September 21, 2025 from 6:00-7:30 P.M. at Smith Family Funeral Home in NLR, AR. Rosary to follow.

Funeral will be held on Monday, September 22, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, NLR, AR.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church Building Fund, Veterans Affairs, or St. Jude’s’s Research Hospital.

Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, AR 72114. 501-758-1170.