Phillip Rudolph Scruggs Sr.

He was born on October 20, 1938, in Sardis, Mississippi, to Walter and Elizabeth Scruggs. He grew up as part of a large and close-knit family with two brothers and four sisters.

After graduating from high school, He began working for Memphis Light, Gas and Water, where he met the love of his life, Bonita Wilson. Together, He and Bonita built a beautiful life and lovingly raised their two sons, Phillip Jr. and Lee. Their marriage spanned 65 years and remained at the center of Phil’s life.

Phil Sr. devoted much of his life to serving his country and his community. He served for over 26 years with the Memphis Police Department, including service in the department’s helicopter division, and rose to the rank of Lieutenant. At the same time, he proudly served in the United States Army and completed a tour of duty in Vietnam, where he received numerous military decorations recognizing his service and bravery.

In 1978, during a hostage situation at Clark Tower in Memphis, He volunteered to assist in the rescue of two citizens being held hostage. During the encounter, he was wounded by gunfire three times.

In 1986, Phil Sr. began the next chapter of his career with Hospital Wing in Memphis, where he served as Chief Pilot for the next 26 years. Throughout those years, he also continued his military service with the Mississippi National Guard, ultimately achieving the rank of Brigadier General before retiring after more than 40 years of military service.

Despite a lifetime filled with extraordinary accomplishments, He remained, at heart, a simple and humble man. He was known for his strong work ethic, quiet strength, and unwavering commitment to serving others. He never sought recognition for the many things he accomplished; instead, he simply believed in doing his duty, taking care of his family, and helping others whenever he could.

Phil Sr. leaves behind a legacy that will be difficult to measure and impossible to replace. His example of service, courage, humility, and devotion left large shoes to fill, and his influence will continue through the family and countless lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of more than 65 years, Bonita; his parents, Walter and Elizabeth Scruggs; his sisters, Frances, Martha, and Dollybelle; and his brothers, Walter and Jake.

He is survived by his sister, Sandra; his sons, Phillip Scruggs, Jr. (Sandi) and Lee Scruggs (Heather); his granddaughter, Laura Scruggs Polanco; and his grandsons, Clay Scruggs and Ethan Scruggs.

To his family, Phil Sr was far more than the titles and honors he earned throughout his remarkable life. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his remarkable work ethic, and a lifetime spent in service to others.

He was a hero in so many ways, but most importantly, he was our hero.

May he rest in eternal peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on September 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Arlington Room at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 N. Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, Tennessee. Following the gathering, the family will have a private burial out at West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery