Richard Phillips

Richard O. Phillips ("Dick") died at his home in Burlington, Vermont, on February 4, 2026. He was 90 years old. He left this life surrounded by the love of his wife and daughter and under the gentle care of Bayada Hospice and The Converse Home staff.

Dick was a beloved member of his small family. He leaves behind his wife of 68 years, Judith Cargill Phillips; daughter, Lisa Geer and husband David; grandchildren, Emily Geer and fiancé Lucas Hanson, and Connor Geer and partner Darbey Durning; daughter-in-law, Gemma Gatti; and five nieces and their families. He was predeceased by his mother and father, John Preston and Louise Lake Phillips, and three older brothers, John ("Jack"), Frederick and Duncan, as well as his in-laws. Tragically, he lost his son, Richard D. Phillips, to brain cancer in 2024.

Dick and Judy had many wonderful friends and colleagues over the years, including the dear friends they met through All Saints Church in Littleton, New Hampshire, many of whom have also predeceased them. They spent ten wonderful years with their PALS, as they called themselves, sharing church gatherings, evenings out, the theater, lectures, birthday and anniversary celebrations and their legendary camping trips in Maine.

Dick was born on September 25, 1935, in Yonkers, New York. He spent his early school years at St. Thomas Choir School and Trinity School in New York City, graduating in 1953. He went on to Kenyon College in Ohio where he earned his bachelor's degree in English and met Judy, the love of his life. The bond was immediate, and they married in June of 1957. He continued his education at Berkeley Divinity School in Connecticut, graduating with a Master of Divinity in 1960.

Dick was ordained as an Episcopal Priest in December of 1960, starting his lifelong commitment to caring for the souls of others. He began in New York serving for more than 13 years as church Rector, first at the Church of the Redeemer in Pelham followed by St. Andrew's Church in Brewster. In 1973 he relocated to Vermont with his wife and children to pursue meaningful work beyond the Church. He touched many lives through his work as senior clinician with Northeast Kingdom Mental Health Services in St. Johnsbury. For much of that time he also led group and individual mental health counseling services for inmates in the St. Johnsbury Correctional Center, an endeavor he found both challenging and fulfilling. He remained there until his retirement in 1996.

Once retired Dick and Judy moved to Littleton, New Hampshire to be closer to their PALS. Dick reengaged professional life in 2002 by providing part-time counseling services through FamilyStrength of New Hampshire. From there he transitioned to Weeks Medical Center in Lancaster, serving as a part-time hospital chaplain until his full retirement in 2013. Dick and Judy then returned to Vermont in 2014 to be closer to family. He continued to offer counseling and spiritual support to others until he was no longer physically able to do so. Throughout his life, Dick met people where they were, always listened and never ever judged.

Dick's life was enriched by loving family and good friends, real and meaningful conversation, music, literature and simply being there for others. He was nourished by his deep spirituality. . .. and he loved his crossword puzzles. He was a quiet and gentle man with a large and benevolent impact. We will miss him deeply.

Dick's family is deeply grateful for the caring staff at the The Converse Home in Burlington and Bayada Hospice in Colchester, Vermont.

No services are planned at this time. As he wished, a small graveside service will be held at a future date. Anyone wishing to formally honor his memory may send donations to All Saints Episcopal Church in Littleton, New Hampshire or All Saints Episcopal Church in South Burlington, Vermont.

Arrangements are in the care of the Chittenden County Cremation Society, a division of the ready Funeral and Cremation Services. To send online condolences please visit www.crematiomsocietycc.com.