Donald Seybirt Phillips

Donald S. Phillips, who had a 50-year career as a reporter, editor and columnist, died September 23, 2025 in McLean. He was 83 and had suffered a number of health problems in recent years.

Don was born on June 10, 1942, in Birmingham, AL, to Lucile (Pettus) Phillips and Seybirt Phillips.

After graduating in 1965 from Auburn University, he began working for United Press International, first in Atlanta and then in Washington. He later spent 20 years at The Washington Post, primarily reporting on transportation, especially aviation safety, and then moved to a similar assignment at The International Herald Tribune in Paris.

Outside of work, he was a lifelong railfan, traveling the world to photograph trains, and an enthusiastic father and grandfather, proudly cheering the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren.

Don is survived by his wife, Linda Werfelman; son Mark Phillips (Barb Bronson); daughter Lisa Wood (Steve); stepdaughter Sara Baygents (Marshall Richards); sisters Dina Elder (Mark) and Susan Ray (Travis); grandchildren Amber Phillips, Jacob Phillips, Madison Phillips, Emily Phillips, Rachel Wood, Cassidy Wood, and Hunter Wood (Andy Veladota); and daughters-in-law Julie Shilling and Janet Phillips.

He was preceded in death by a son, Daniel Phillips; his parents; and his ex-wife and mother of his children, Ione Dellinger Phillips.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Center for Railroad Photography & Art.

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