Charles Bertram Phills

Mr. Charles Bertram Phills, age 97, of London Ontario passed away on January 2, 2026. He was born in Sydney, Nova Scotia to the late Isaac and Mary Alda Phills on June 26, 1928. He is pre-deceased by his wives Florence and Doris, his brother James and his wife Gerine, his brother Neville, his sister Doreen and her husband Calbert, his sister Gertrude and her husband Ray, his brother George and his wife Acklema and his great granddaughter Angela Rose. He will be dearly missed by his sister Patricia and his sister-in-law Jackie, his sons Bertram (Laverne) and Charles (Claire). He will be remembered fondly by his grandchildren Curtis, James, Charly and Dillon. He will be missed by his great grandchildren Ashton, Brayden, Charlotte and Dustin.

Charles was a graduate of Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia where he received his B.Sc. degree. Following his graduation from university he first worked as an industrial chemist at the Dosco Seaboard Power Corporation in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia. Charles continued his career as an industrial chemist when he changed companies and began working at the Sydney Steel Plant. He remained with the steel plant until 1968. He then joined the London Board of Education. Charles taught science first at A.B. Lucas Secondary School and then at Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School for the next 22 years. During his teaching career, he provided his students unfailing support and encouragement. Charles loved music. While living in Sydney he directed the Air Cadet Band, the Boys Club band and played in the City Band along with his sons. Charles and his sons on Christmas Eve would visit the homes of family to play Christmas carols. In London he was a mason and an active member of Shaftesbury Lodge #25 and later he was a member of St. John Lodge #9 in Chatham. As a member of Shaftesbury Lodge, he served in all the stations including Worshipful Master of the lodge. Charles was a third-degree mason which is the highest and most important degree. He was also honoured as a 33rd Degree Mason which recognized his exceptional dedication, leadership and contribution to masonry.

In retirement, Charles continued his involvement with the masons. Not a fan of the cold weather, Charles and Doris would spend their winters in Florida where they owned a trailer. Family and friends were always welcomed to join them. Charles and Doris travelled a great deal during their retirement visiting many places across North America, Europe and cruised the Caribbean.

The family would like to recognize the staff at Richmond Woods Retirement Residence in London, Ontario and Bear Creek Terrace in Petrolia for their wonderful care and compassion they provided Charles during the later stages of his life.

Donations to your charity of choice or to the MS Society in Charles name would be appreciated

Family and friends will be received for visitation on Wednesday January 14, 2026 from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at Needham Funeral Home, 520 Dundas Street, London Ontario. The funeral service for Charles will follow the visitation at the 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. Interment to follow at Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.

The service will be live streamed. Visit www.needhamfuneralhome.com to view and where fond memories and expression of sympathy may be shared.