Phillip Reilly

Phil passed away on March 27, 2026 after a long battle with Lewy Body disease. He died peacefully with his wife Pat holding his hand. His steady presence, strong character and quiet kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Phil was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico to John Joseph Jr. and Mary Lois Brassell Reilly. He grew up on the island enjoying its sunshine and beaches. His father was an airline pilot giving Phil the opportunity to be around airports and airplanes establishing a lifelong love of aviation and travel. After graduation from Antilles High School, where he was a football star, Phil arrived in Knoxville to attend the University of Tennessee earning a BS in Business Administration. While at UT, Phil was enrolled in the AFROTCprogram graduating in 1971 as a Distinguished Military Graduate. After graduation, he was sworn into the Air Force ranked 2nd Lieutenant and began his military career as a navigator on KC-135 Stratotankers in the 97th squadron, Strategic Air Command. He saw service during the Vietnam Era in SE Asia as well as Europe, 1971-1975. His military service was especially meaningful to him reflecting his deep sense of duty, discipline and dedication to his country. His rank upon discharge was Ist Lt. Phil was an honoree on the Knoxville Honor Air flight April 12, 2023, which gave him and other veterans the welcome home they were denied after the war.

Having adopted Tennessee as his second home, after his service Phil moved to Cleveland where he worked at M&M Mars as a finance manager. A highlight of his career was serving as a host

for Mars' guests at the 1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics. Retirement afforded Phil and Pat the time to travel. His 50th birthday was spent in Istanbul while on a Mediterranean cruise. He enjoyed boating, RV camping, spending time in the Smoky Mountains and supporting his beloved Vols while enjoying family time. Phil and Pat lived in Blount County from 2003-2024. He was a member of New Providence Presbyterian Church there, volunteered as a tutor with Blount County Adult Education and was a member of Alcoa Kiwanis. Phil and Pat's final move was to Ooltewah, Tennessee due to his illness and the need to be near their daughters. Phil will be buried at Grandview Cemetery Maryville on June 20, 2026 at noon.

Phil's parents predeceased him but he is survived by wife of 42 years, Pat Hitson Reilly of Ooltewah, brother Mike Reilly (Aida) of Florida, son Brian Reilly (Amanda) of Colorado and daughter Kelly Bishop of Hixson. Grandchildren are Jensen and Alexis Bishop, Bryant and Michael Reilly. Phil also leaves step-daughters Lisa Altman of Georgia, Angie Jones (Steve) of Florida and Ooltewah as well as Jenny King (Randy) of Ooltewah. Step-grandchildren are Audrey and Ava Altman, Steven and Wesley Jones, Easton and Ellis King. Phil is also survived by niece AnnaBeth Sorrenti, nephews Patrick and J.J. Reilly and two cousins.

The family would like to thank the staff of The Lantern at Morning Pointe (Shallowford), Accentcare and Hearth Hospice for their excellent care during Phil's illness.