James Franklin Phillips, age 80, passed away on Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at his residence in Laveen, AZ. He was born on November 3, 1938 to the late J.C. and Gracie Mae (Howard) Phillips in Mason, TN. James proudly served in the U.S. Army as a SPC 4 in Germany for two years. He owned 1st Choice Trucking. On January 4, 1963 he married Rosie Duran in Phoenix. He enjoyed cards, bbq-ing, golf, camping, baseball, and spending time with his family, friends, and animals. James is survived by his loving spouse of 56 years, Rosie; two children, Linda (Joey) Martinez, and Sandra (Art) Arvizu; five siblings, Mary Leake, Annie Johnson, Elton Johnson, Pat Harris, and Debbie Schmidt; seven grandchildren, Stephanie Arvizu, Corrina Martinez, Erik Arvizu, Seth Arvizu, Jared Phillips, Ryan Phillips, and Kyle Phillips; seven great grandchildren, Alek Hedges, Elias Calderon, Olivia Hedges, Zayden Arvizu, Scarlett Hedges, Zariah Martinez, and Jalissa Ramirez; and many other loving family and friends. He was preceded in death by his two sons, Jerry and Barry Phillips; seven siblings, William Johnson, Mack Johnson, Wayne Johnson, Ray Medlin, Dewey Phillips, Shirley Barnett, Glenda Palmer; and a grandson, Joseph James Martinez. Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Monday, February 25, 2019 at Shadow Mountain Mortuary, 2350 E. Greenway Road, Phoenix, AZ 85022. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, February 26, 2019, at Shadow Mountain Mortuary. In lieu of flowers, contributions in James’ honor may be made to the family.
