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Jerry Phillips Obituary
Jerry Phillips, beloved father, loving husband, brother, teacher, mentor and "Coach" passed away on Sunday, June 23rd, 2019. Jerry was a longtime resident of Walnut Creek.
Jerry was a legendary basketball coach at Sacred Heart High School and a member of both the Sacred Heart Cathedral and San Francisco Prep Halls of Fame. A beloved faculty member at the San Francisco school from 1956 to 2013 and head coach from 1962-85, Jerry later went on to coach at Las Lomas High School from 1990-95 while continuing to teach at Sacred Heart, accumulating numerous titles between the two programs.
Phillips was a graduate of Fremont High (1952) and Saint Mary's College of California (1956) and he led the Sacred Heart Cathedral boys basketball program to numerous West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL) titles and Tournament of Champions appearances, compiling a 512-294 record. Amongst his most notable achievements was winning the last AAA crown for the Fightin' Irish in 1969 before entering the WCAL and capturing the school's first CCS title in 1972. He came out of coaching retirement in 1990 to coach for six seasons at Las Lomas and lead the Las Lomas Knights to a 24-4 record, reaching the North Coast Section playoffs every year. Phillips taught the game in a way that inspired countless former players to become coaches and better men.
Jerry is survived by his 'angel,' his wife of 52 years, Janice. They were often referred to as "Jan & Jer". He was the very proud father of five children and their spouses: Kevin and Sandy Phillips, Steve and Melissa Phillips, Toni Raney (preceded in death), Greg and Jen Phillips, and Heather and Chad Cola. He adored eight grandchildren: Michelle (Kyle) Watt, Carly Phillips, Alaina (Ryan) Vidmar, Aaron (Kathy) Phillips, Alyssa Phillips, Ryan Raney, Domenic Cola, and Luke Phillips and four beautiful great grandchildren. Jerry loved his family fiercely.
Two gatherings are being planned to honor this amazing man. A Memorial service on Saturday, August 17th at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory in San Francisco and an Open House Celebration of Life in the East Bay, Sunday, August 18th from 1-4 p.m. at 20 Fallen Oak Lane Martinez, CA 94553. Charitable donations may be made to the Coach Jerry Phillips Endowment Fund at Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep. Please feel free to provide your contact information to the family, who will share further details on services: [email protected].
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jerry Phillips
Fabio Giotta
December 11, 2019
Though I never played sports, I did have Mr. Philips for both Drivers Ed. and Business Math. His mantra of "Listen, Follow Directions, Follow Directions, Listen!" while tugging his ears was perhaps the single most important thing he taught me during my Junior year at Sacred Heart. This saying is something I have used consistently for decades in my personal and work lives, and I always give him credit for it. He marked my brain indelibly with this saying as he delivered it to my Business Math classmates while walking back and forth on top of the long desk/counters while tugging his ears. His Business Math class was a great turning point in my mathematical studies. My older brother Gianfranco (Class of 1962) also had Mr. Philips for Business Math. Mr. Philips was a very competent, fair and practical teacher and a good person. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten! "Coach Philips" and his family are in my prayers.
Fabio G. Giotta, S.H.H.S Class of 1980
August 17, 2019
Prayers and sincere condolences on behalf of Jerry Phillips. Long-time staff member at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Very dedicated to his students and the staff. God bless him and may he rest in peace with the Lord. Brother Arnold, FSC
Tom Del Torre
July 28, 2019
I was lucky enough to make the team 66/67. Great coach and a gentleman.
Later on with SFPD we jointly directed a few young men in the right direction.
Will be missed
Tom Del Torre
Class of 67
Rosie and Jim Horan
July 16, 2019
Janice and family, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Jerry was so low key, unassuming and respectful. To say that he was loved and admired by faculty, students, coaching staff and athletes doesn't come close to describe what a gift he was to many, and most definitely to you and your family. Jerry was such a "gentle man" and a "gentlemen". It was a true honor to know him and call him friend.
Always...Rosie and Jim
July 11, 2019
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family today. You were a wonderful teacher, coach, and person. You exemplified helping people become better.
Claudio Luporini - Sacred Heart - Class of 1970
Ken 78, Kathy and Katrina 08 Baccetti
July 4, 2019
Our thoughts and prayers to the Phillips family during this most difficult time. I had Mr. Phillips for Drivers Ed as well as Business Math. He always had time for me, answering my many questions often after class. I'll always remember him for his patience and kindness. Our daughter never had him as an instructor, but remembers her conversations with him. Rest In Peace Mr. Phillips.
Mike Carey
July 4, 2019
My thoughts and prayers are with the
Phillips family at this time. He was my coach along with 3 of my brothers and had a good relationship with my mom and dad. I had him as a teacher in typing,drivers ed and business math. I was glad I got to play for him and his mentoring and coaching style is one reason I got into coaching many years ago. My daughter was able to have him as a teacher as well. I fondly remember stopping to talk to him after school as he was headed home and I was heading to have my practice. always took the time to listen and give me a few word of advice. Miss you Coach!
Mike & Debbie Carey & family
July 2, 2019
Losing a loved one is never easy, but our loving God promises to give the strength and courage you'll need to endure, and to cope with the pain of your loss. He also promises to hold your hand every step of the way. (Isaiah 40:29, 41:10, 13) May loving memories also sustain your family during this difficult time. Ann Smith
Rudy Zannini
July 1, 2019
My deepest sympathy to the Phillips family during this most trying time. We competed as players and coaches but always remained good and lasting friends. May he rest in peace.
June 28, 2019
My sincere condolences to the family. May you find comfort during this most trying time, knowing God hears your prayers and sees your tears.Isaiah 38:5
Kevin Buckley
June 28, 2019
I was fortunate to be a student during Coach Phillips's final years at SHC. He was always a positive presence, and his deep love for the school community was apparent in all he did. Jerry was a true class act, my sincere condolences to the Phillips family. Rest In Peace. Class of 2013.
Melissa Phillips
June 28, 2019
I love you Jer. Thank you for being such an incredible Dad to me. Thank you for raising such an incredible son who I am blessed to call my husband. Thank you for loving me so well and being the best Grampy ever to our children and grandchildren. Thank you for the incredible support you have been to me for over 40 years. I miss you and can't wait to see you when I get to join you in heaven.
June 27, 2019
Mr.Phillips was my teacher at Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep in San Francisco, 1965-69. I, too, chose to become an educator and served students in the Bay Area for 37 plus years. I was often asked who was the one teacher in my educational journey who most influenced me? -- the question was an easy one for me to answer - Mr. Jerry Phillips -- his expectations were clear, and he was always fair and consistent. I will miss you, Mr. Phillips -- I learned so much from you...I only wish that I could pick up your lunch tab at Corners Tavern one more time. Rest in Peace.
Michael Martinez
Class of 1969
Tom Morrissey 67
June 27, 2019
Played for four years under Coach 1967 -1970. He was always larger than life . Last sat with him at Friday the13 th I will always cherish that time spent with him talking about life and basketball. He truly impacted my life even to this day .
June 27, 2019
To the Phillip's family and those related, my deepest condolences. May the God of tender mercies comfort you and give you peace during this difficult time.
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