William R. Phillips

William "Pa" R. Phillips, age 89, of Warrenville, IL, passed away on August 18, 2025, with his beloved wife, Clarene, by his side.

Bill was born on August 24, 1935, in Chicago, IL, to James and Lavinia Phillips. He grew up in Chicago and, as a young man, entered the workforce. He worked a variety of jobs, including owning his own restaurant, before finding his passion in law enforcement. Bill went on to serve as Chief of Police for both the Village of Golf and the City of Warrenville at the same time - a rare and remarkable achievement. After leaving law enforcement, Bill went into business selling insurance in 1985, a career he enjoyed until just a few years ago. The insurance business drew on his love of chatting with people, getting to know them, and helping them.

Bill will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality. His exuberant "Hello!" when answering the phone and the nicknames he gave nearly everyone will be cherished memories. He brought joy and love to every room he entered, was quick to crack a joke, and made everyone feel welcome. A lifelong animal lover, Bill never hesitated to bring home a stray dog or two.

Bill's family was his greatest passion. He was happiest surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He could often be found on the sidelines of baseball, football, or basketball games, cheering proudly for his grandkids and great-grandkids. His cheering always extended to all the kids playing, no matter the team - he was happiest as long as everyone was having fun.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Clarene Phillips (née Boucher); his daughters, Debra Phillips (Stephen Mays) and Jennifer Briggs; his grandchildren, Christi Spikings (Steven), Michelle Tracy (James Houk), Danielle Hatton (Joey), Keri Tracy, and Robert Phillips; his great-grandchildren, Payton, Ella, Noah, William, Caleb, Logan, Brooklyn, Amelia, Piper, and Brynlee; his sister, Mary Lou Phillips; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, James P. and Lavinia Phillips; his brother, James Phillips; and his sister, Kate.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home, 44 S. Mill Street, Naperville, IL. A funeral service will follow on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the same location. A procession will then continue to Fairview Memorial Park in Northlake, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Moody Bible Institute in Bill's memory.

Above all, Bill's legacy will live on in the laughter he shared, the family he cherished, and the community he so faithfully served.