Graham Rhys Phillips

Graham Rhys Phillips passed away on January 17, 2026 in Austin, Texas, aged 38. Graham was born on March 9, 1987 in Edmond, Oklahoma. The family moved several times during his school years living in London, England, Aberdeen, Scotland and Houston, Texas. Graham completed his Scottish education in 2004 at Robert Gordon’s College in Aberdeen. After completing his Scottish exams, he earned his US high school diploma in 2005 from TASIS England in Surrey.

Graham was attending the University of Leicester in England when, tragically, on September 22, 2007 he was a pedestrian hit by a drunk driver and suffered a traumatic brain injury leaving him severely disabled for the rest of his life. In spite of his injuries, Graham never lost his mischievous and cheeky personality or his beautiful smile. Prior to his injuries Graham pursued his passion for sports and music, earned the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, and made countless friends wherever he went.

Graham was moved to a rehab facility in Austin, July 2008 and then cared for at home by family and three angel carers, Carolyn Kelly, Gwen Dickson and Ella Jackmon-Baylor. Words can never adequately convey what a gift these women gave to Graham and his family. Their impeccable professionalism and huge loving hearts were a joy to behold.

Graham is survived by his mother, Donna Hilliard Phillips, his father, David Roy Phillips, his sister, Natalie Sian Cook (Wendell), his brother, Jonathan Gareth Phillips, and his nephew, Evan Rhys Cook. He is also survived by his grandfather, Clayton Paul Hilliard (Madlyn) and numerous Welsh and American aunties, uncles and cousins.

Heartfelt thanks to Dr. David Morledge, Mary Williams, Dr. Jonathan Klocek, Dr. Scott Sweeney, and all of the therapists who were so kind and helpful to Graham. We would also like to express our gratitude to our family members and the many friends who supported us throughout this long journey.

Rest in Peace Graham.

There will be a Memorial Service (which will also be live-streamed) for Graham on February 28, 2026, 11:00am at Weed-Corley-Fish funeral home, 5416 Parkcrest Drive, Austin TX 78731.