Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
James “Jim” Edward Phillips, age 93, of Saint Marys, peacefully finished his journey to heaven in the presence of his family on July 25, 2025, at Otterbein Senior Life, St. Marys, Ohio.
Jim was born on Dec. 28, 1931, in Warsaw, to the late Lawrence and Kathryn Thompson Phillips. He married his high school sweetheart, Betty Jean Norris, on July 27, 1952. She passed away on Feb. 26, 2022. They were married nearly 70 years.
He is survived by his sons, Dr. Stephen (Rachael) Phillips, of Upland; and Dr. Brad (Mary Kay) Phillips, of Lexington, Ky.; grandchildren: Elizabeth (Frank) Sabelhaus, Capt. C. Ryan (Andrea) Phillips, Christy (Bryan) Dam, Julia (Rafael) Guerrero, Dr. David (Janelle) Phillips and Sarah (Timothy) Hollihan. He also has 14 great-grandchildren. His sister, Molly (Phillips) Warren, survives in Leesburg.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Peggy Phillips.
After graduating from Warsaw High School, Jim served in the U.S. Air Force as a staff sergeant. He graduated from Indiana University and worked in management for several industries, including Cummins Engine Company, Arvin, Hamilton Cosco and Huffy. He also worked for Otterbein and was the driving force behind the Tree of Hope, a special Christmas tradition that has benefitted many Otterbein residents through its benevolence fund.
Jim was active in his church and community throughout his long life, often serving in leadership roles. He was a people person and kid who never knew a stranger. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a special place in his heart. An avid fan of Indiana University sports, Jim also enjoyed reading, traveling and playing cards.
A celebration of Jim's life will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 2 at Lehman-Dzendzel Funeral Home with Rev. John Medaugh officiating. Family and friends may call from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday before services at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions may be directed to Grand Lake Hospice 1122 E. Spring St., St. Marys, OH 45885; or the Tree of Life Benevolence Fund at Otterbein, St. Marys.
Condolences may be shared with the Phillips family at www.lehmandzendzelfh.com.
