James Ray Phillips

PHILLIPS - James Ray Phillips, 90, of Jacksonville, Florida went to be with His Lord on Sunday, June 12, 2016. Ray was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina on December 13, 1925 to Viola and Buford Phillips. Ray is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Betty. He is also survived by three children: Ann Cituk (Jeff), Jane Phillips, and John Phillips (Lynne). He has five grandchildren: Christy Doll (Doug), John Cituk (Cindy Donald), John Patrick Phillips (Meg), Lindsey Sheets (Daniel) and Emily Webb (Darin). He also is survived by seven great grandchildren: Tyler Doll, McKalee Doll, Gabe Doll, Samuel Doll, Shepherd Doll, Piper Phillips and Hadley Webb.

Ray graduated from the University of Tennessee with a degree in Civil Engineering and worked as a Structural Engineer for 35 years with Reynolds, Smith and Hills in Jacksonville, Florida. He loved his work, especially the wonderful friends he developed through his vocation. He was a steadfast member and Deacon of Parkwood Baptist Church for 56 years. He was faithful to serve, considering it a great privilege as a member of Parkwood’s body of Christ. Most importantly, Ray was a loving and faithful husband, a thoughtful and giving father, a kind and attentive grandfather, and a proud and blessed great grandfather. Ray loved Jesus Christ and committed his life to following His Word. Those who knew Ray Phillips saw Christ in him through his kindness, his giving nature and his loving heart. While there is sadness in Ray’s passing, there is also great joy in the realization of the promises found in God’s Word and we know we shall meet again: “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:55-57

A memorial service will be held at Parkwood Baptist Church (7900 Lone Star Road) on Thursday, June 16 at 11:00 a.m.