Thomas Jay Phillips

Thomas Jay Phillips (Tom), age 78, of Beaverton, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Vibrant Life Senior Living Memory Care in Durand, Michigan. Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will be held at a later date. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
Tom was born in Toledo, Ohio, on September 16, 1947, the son of Byron and Rita (Hausmann) Phillips. He graduated from Owosso High School in 1965, where he excelled in both football and wrestling. He went on to attend Northwood Institute on a four-year football scholarship, earning his bachelor's degree in Business Management.
With over 30 years of dedicated service, Tom worked for General Motors as a Supervisor at the Buick-Oldsmobile-Cadillac Assembly Plant in Grand Blanc and later retired from Delphi in Saginaw.
He loved spending time at his home on Wixom Lake in Beaverton. Tom served as the Albright Shores Township Supervisor and was an active member of the Albright Shores Eagles. He was also a member of the Tobacco River Muzzle Loaders Rifle and Pistol Club, where he especially enjoyed fly shooting with the kids.
A true outdoorsman, Tom found joy in boating, hunting, camping, and snowmobiling. He was a passionate gun and knife collector and had a lifelong appreciation for classic cars. Among his most cherished possessions was the 1945 Civilian Jeep #3, handed down through the family, which he lovingly restored.
Tom was also artistic and creative, with a love for drawing and hands-on projects. He enjoyed playing euchre and other games with family and friends, always bringing laughter and a touch of friendly competition to the table. He had a great love for his many pets over the years and adored his "grand dogs," who brought him endless joy and companionship.
He will be remembered for his kind heart, easygoing nature, and gift of gab. Mischievous, playful, and never one to hold a grudge, Tom brought humor and warmth wherever he went.
He is survived by his children, Tracy and Tony Sovey of Vernon and Jay and Kim Phillips of Roscommon; his grandson, Jakob Phillips (Nadine) of Corunna; his former wife and mother of his children, Virginia Caterer; and many cousins and dear friends.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Shirley Wright, and brother-in-law, Charles Wright.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.