Stephen Phillis

Gardiner- Stephen P. Phillis, 58, of River Avenue died peacefully on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, following an extended illness, his loving family was by his side.

Steve was born in Waterville, ME on August 29, 1967, the son of the late Paul E. and Judith Y. (Michaud) Phillis. He attended local schools in Gardiner and graduated from Gardiner High School in the class of 1985.

In 1987 Steve went to work at Bath Iron Works where he started as a Tin Knocker and worked his way up to supervisor, a career which spanned twenty-seven years when illness forced him to retire.

In 1989 he met the love his life Diane Chouinard, together they made their home and raised their family in the same Gardiner neighborhood that Steve grew up in. Steve and Diane were married in Gardiner in 2009.

In his spare time, he enjoyed ice fishing, smelting on the Kennebec, hunting, coin collecting and was an avid Nascar fan. He loved spending time outdoors with his dad Harlan and the many hours remembering special dates and events that occurred over the years. His greatest love was the time he spent surrounded by his family, especially his children and grandchildren who he adored. Steve will be remembered for his quick wit and funny stories.

Steve was predeceased by his mother, Judith Brown; a stepbrother, Bruce Richard. He is survived by his wife, Diane Phillis of Gardiner; his father, Harlan S. Brown of Gardiner; two children, Crystal and her husband Scott Young of Lewiston, and Bryan Hamner and his companion, Alyson Fellows of Gardiner; four grandchildren, Willow Young of Lewiston, Ashton Young of Lewiston, Cole Hamner of Augusta and Violet Hamner of Augusta; two sisters Lynn and her husband Michael McNeff of Windsor and Paula and her husband Chris Erickson of Anson; two step brothers, Robert Richard of Waterville and William Richard of FL; step sister, Jessica Dixon of FL; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Celebration of Steve's life will be held at a later date. Arrangements and guidance are under the direction of Staples Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave, Gardiner, ME. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family by visiting the Staples Funeral Home website www.StaplesFH.com