Coach Charles Philip "Phil" English passed away on May 18, 2020 at the age of 82. A native of Birmingham, Phil graduated from Ensley High School in 1956. He received his bachelor's degree from Birmingham Southern College and his master's degree in math and science for the University of Alabama. He returned to his alma mater, Ensley, to begin his coaching career in 1962. After his three year coaching stint at Ensley, he took an assistant coach position at Florida State University.
He returned to Birmingham in 1966 to coach at Banks High School then later moved to Huffman High School where he enjoyed his greatest success. He spent the last six years of his career at Hewitt-Trussville High School. Throughout Coach English's 28-year career, his teams amassed over 560 wins and two state championships all while continuously mentoring those around him. Even with all his accomplishments on the ball field, Phil thought of himself a math teacher first. His character of goodness, honesty, and integrity was a model for the students and athletes around him. His outstanding coaching career earned him the honor of being inducted into both the Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Alabama Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2000.
Phil's love and dedication to his family was above all. He was a beloved son, brother, and uncle. He also had many friends that were very special to him with whom he loved sharing meals and memories. His love, devotion and care for his family, friends, and fellow man overshadows all his other accomplishments. Phil believed in God, professed Jesus Christ, and enjoyed gospel music.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John R. English and Louise Wallis English; sister-in-law, Carol Adams English; and niece, Nancy Anne English. Phil is survived by his brothers, J. Ronald "Ronnie" English (Beverly) and Howard English; his nephew, Alan English (Kelley); niece, Chris Shelton; nephews, Scott English (Shelley) and Steve English (Sherry). He is also survived by his grand nieces and nephews, Nicole, Courtney, Philip, Anna, Cameron, Kayla, Madison, and Ashlyn.
The family wishes to thank all of the first responders and health care workers that have been with and provided care and compassion to Phil over the recent months. Funeral arrangements are being made through Elmwood Chapel Funeral Home. Pastor John Verciglio will preside. Because of the restrictions currently in place, there will be a private family ceremony. We hope to have a celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice in memory of Coach Phil English.
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