William Edson Phillips

William Edson Phillips

TEN MILE, Tenn. - William Edson Phillips, 92, died Friday (Sept. 10, 2021) of natural causes, 19 days before his 93rd birthday.

He was a recent homeowner in Ten Mile, having moved from "up the Four Mile" in Olean, N.Y., then to Oak Ridge in the early 80s. Known as "Uncle Bill" to many, he was born in Batavia, N.Y., the son of William M. and Ruth Waite Phillips.

Early in their marriage, Bill served in the USAF as an NCO, ending his stint in Europe.

He enjoyed meeting people in his "Uncle Bill's booth at a Rockwood flea market, donating his entire proceeds to St. Jude's, his favorite charity. He could still click his heels together even into his 80s, and is probably still doing so.

Uncle Bill was an accomplished golfer, an excellent wood craftsman, a fisherman, a retired automotive salesman and real estate salesman, was a competent gardener and was an elected county official.

He was a devoted Buffalo Bills fan.

He is survived by two sons, William Jack of Friendship, N.Y. and Adam (Charlotte) of Kingston; and two grandchildren, Autumn Phillips of Kingston and Jenny Canter of New York.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Barbara McKay Phillips; and two children, Rebecca Kilmer of Olean and Mary Ann of Ithaca, N.Y.

His family thanks Commonwealth Assisted Living in Oak Ridge, and especially his nurse, Julianna, who made his last days almost delightful. He especially wanted to thank Larry and Janet Steidle and Jim and Cyndi McKay, Ten Mile, and Jim and Arlene Chamberlain, California, for their love and support throughout his adventure.

To remember Bill, please give to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Weatherford Mortuary is handling the arrangements.

An online guestbook can be signed at www.weatherfordmortuary.com.