Robert Wayne Phillips

Robert was the beloved son of James and Beverly Phillips and grew up with a deep curiosity about the world—especially anything that flew. His passion for aviation began early. As a teenager, he spent his summers at Arlington Municipal Airport washing planes to earn money for flight lessons. He completed his first solo flight at just 16 and earned his private pilot’s license at 17, a milestone that remained one of his proudest achievements.

A 1971 graduate of Arlington High School, Robert went on to serve his country with honor in the U.S. Navy as an Ocean Systems Technician Analyst from 1973 to 1977. After completing his service, he earned a degree in Accounting from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1978. He built a long and distinguished career in the oil, gas, and chemical industries, where his intelligence, work ethic, and integrity were evident to all who worked with him.

On May 28, 1977, Robert married the love of his life, Terri Aileen Bauer, beginning a partnership marked by devotion, laughter, and unwavering support. Together they raised three children—Derick, Lindsey, and Melissa—who were the center of Robert’s world. He was a dedicated and exemplary father, always working hard to give his family the best life possible and encouraging them in every endeavor.

Robert also had a lifelong love of cars, especially Corvettes, and he enjoyed sharing that enthusiasm with those around him. But above all, his greatest joy was his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and quiet wisdom that will continue to guide those who knew him.

Robert is preceded in death by his mother, Beverly Ann Phillips. He is survived by his father, James Phillips; his devoted wife, Terri; his children and their spouses—Derick and Julinda Phillips, Lindsey and Anas Elhattab, and Melissa Phillips and William Johnson; his sisters Lynette Crosby and her husband Ray, and Donna Janelle Howard; and his cherished grandchildren—Safiya, James, Bentley, Ali, and Norah—who brought him immense pride and happiness.

Robert was the best son, husband, father, brother, and grandfather his family could have hoped for. His absence leaves a profound void, but his memory will forever be a blessing to all who loved him.

A visitation will be held at American Heritage Funeral Home, located at 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038, on February 23, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life will take place at the same venue from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

A subsequent Celebration of Life will be held at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038, on February 23, 2026, from 1:15 pm to 1:45 pm.

Pallbearers for the services will be Anas Elhattab, William Johnson, Bobby Taylor, Jeramiah Johnson, Elyjiah Johnson, and Diego Tellez.