Trey Phillips

On March 11, 2025, Trey John Phillips, also known as "Jimmy," tragically and unexpectedly passed away in Jackson, Minnesota, at the age of 24.

Trey was born on May 18, 2000, at Faith Regional Hospital in Norfolk, NE. From a young age, he brought joy to everyone around him, starting as a happy baby who adored Elmo. Trey and his mother lived in Nebraska until relocating to South Dakota when he was three. He attended kindergarten in Harrisburg, SD, where he participated in Taekwondo and wrestling. Later, Trey and his mother moved to Jackson, where he spent most of his childhood. He was active in baseball, football, and Boy Scouts and had a love for fishing and Legos. In sixth grade, Trey and his mother moved to Luverne, Minnesota. During his middle and high school years, he spent much of his time mowing lawns, fishing, and hunting. He graduated from Luverne High School in June 2018.

On August 1, 2019, Trey joined the South Dakota Army National Guard, proudly serving in the 155th Engineer Company. During his service, he received the South Dakota Service Medal, the ARCAM Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the National Defense Ribbon, and a Qualified Marksmanship Award. Trey completed a deployment to Romania, further demonstrating his deep dedication and sense of duty.

Trey’s greatest pride and joy came on August 2, 2024, with the birth of his daughter, Kinsleigh Ann. He was devoted to being an active and loving father. His warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm for life extended to all children, as he was often found babysitting or spending time with friends’ kids, always bringing laughter and joy.

An avid outdoorsman, Trey loved fishing, hunting with Lilly (Trey’s dog), snowmobiling, burning tires, target shooting with his mom and riding dirt bikes. He especially enjoyed watching his cousin Karsen race. Trey had a passion for collecting everything and anything and enjoyed the thrill of trading and negotiating. His outgoing personality made him a social butterfly, and his infectious smile, big heart, and contagious laugh left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Trey is survived by his mother, Crystal Phillips of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; his beloved daughter, Kinsleigh Ann Phillips of Heron Lake, Minnesota; Adam Whiting of Estherville, Iowa; many half-siblings; and numerous family members and friends who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandparents, Ronald and Phyllis Schomaker and Melvin and Joann Phillips; his great-uncle, Monte Phillips; his uncle, Ronny Vorakummanne; and his brother, Lucus Ove.

Trey’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his love for life and the legacy he leaves behind will never be forgotten.

Please return as Trey's LifeTribute video will appear when it becomes available.

Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.