Leonard Joe Phillips

Leonard Joe Phillips, also known as Phil, was born on August 8, 1946, in Fayetteville, Tennessee, to his proud parents, George and Pauline Phillips. During his early childhood, the family relocated to Washington, D.C., where Leonard became a member of the Cosmopolitan Baptist Church, singing in the youth choir. He attended D.C. public schools, graduating from Coolidge High School.

On June 3, 1966, Leonard answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Air Force. As an aircraft radio technician, he served during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he built a distinguished career at the U.S. Postal Service, where he worked for over 30 years—starting as a mail carrier and retiring as an electronics equipment engineer.

On August 8, 1977, Leonard married the love of his life, Carolyn Phillips. He devoted himself to her, watching over her with unwavering love. Together, they raised four wonderful children. Every Memorial Day, their family gathered in Ocean City to vacation, a tradition that brought joy and countless memories. Leonard was a proud grandfather, never missing an opportunity to support his grandchildren at their events. With a video recorder always in hand, he preserved moments that his family would treasure forever.

Leonard embraced his role as the eldest sibling with great responsibility, staying connected through regular phone calls and serving as a steadfast protector to his sisters and brothers. A sports enthusiast, Leonard excelled at baseball and basketball and had an enduring passion for football—loyally supporting his favorite team, the Washington Commanders. He was also an avid golfer and a dedicated collector, amassing a remarkable collection of coins, baseball cards, and stamps.

Leonard leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn Phillips; his children, Ron L. Phillips (Christy), Keith L. Phillips (Jackie), Elvera Gleaton (Dwayne), and Joel L. Phillips (Dana); his cherished sister, Joann Phillips-O’Brien (John); and his brother, Jerry Phillips Sr. (Velma). His memory lives on through his ten grandchildren: Sekou, Sekia, Darius, Maya, Todd, Breana, Breshai, Tedros, Nzinga, and Caleb, as well as four great-grandchildren: Maximus, Nahla, Diane, and A’layia. He is also survived by three nephews, George L. Phillips (Marcia), Jerry Phillips Jr., and Jaleel Phillips, and two nieces, Charlene Phillips and Elizabeth Greene.

Preceding him in death are his parents, George and Pauline Phillips; his brother, Charles Phillips; and two beloved nieces, Javielle Phillips and DeJuana McConner.

His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A visitation for Leonard will be held Monday, June 16, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Fort Lincoln Funeral Home, 3401 BLADENSBURG RD, BRENTWOOD, MD 20722. A celebration of life will occur Monday, June 16, 2025 at 1:00 PM, 3401 BLADENSBURG RD, BRENTWOOD, MD 20722. A committal will occur Monday, June 16, 2025 at 2:30 PM at Fort Lincoln Funeral Home & Cemetery, 3401 Bladensburg Rd, Brentwood, MD 20722.