James Edward Phillips Jr.

James Edward “Chang/Phil” Phillips Jr. was born on December 29th, 1934 in Nelleyville Missouri to Mrs. Corrine Outlaw Phillips and Mr. James Edward Phillips Sr. James was the middle child of the five siblings.

James’ father moved the family to New Port Arkansas in 1938 after the passing of their mother. James’ grandmother Judy and his Aunts Hettie and Josie helped in caring for and raising the family.

James attended public schools in New Port and he graduated from New Port High School. After graduation James worked for a local diner until he was drafted by the United States Army. James was honorably discharged after two years of service , upon leaving the Army he moved to Tucson, Arizona .

James was employed by Continental Airlines as a Sky Cap for over 20 years. During this times he met and united with Elzora Boykins-Phillips. James became a self-employed handyman after leaving Continental Airlines.

James was a league bowler at Cactus Bowling Alley for many years, he was also a member of The Arizona Black American Golfing League(ABAGL.) James was a member of The American Legion and The Disabled American Veterans. James enjoyed listening to Jazz music and spending time with his family.

James transitioned from this life on November 16th, 2021. He is proceeded in death by siblings Ardella Perkins, Susie Humphries, Cora Reynolds and wife Elzora Boykins-Phillips. Left to cherish and carry on his legacy: daughter Jacqueline “Jacque” Hildreth, sister in law Hattie Ward, brother in law Nelson Boykins, Goddaughter Elaine Foster-Rios, granddaughter Natasha Clark of Tucson, AZ, grandsons Jerome Haley and Marcus Harris of Los Angeles, CA, Isaiah Magee-Johnson of Phoenix, AZ, five great grandsons and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.