Laurence Ray Phillips

Laurence Ray Phillips was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He had the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

Laurence was born on June 4, 1933 at WCA Hospital in Jamestown, New York. He was the son of Ray and Carrie (Wolcott) Phillips. Laurence grew up in Falconer, New York.

Laurence had six siblings; two older brothers, Charles and Donald, and four older sisters, Irene, Alberta, Muriel and Leola

As a young boy, Laurence enjoyed playing and making up games. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. He was a Boy Scout. However, to Laurence, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his friends.

He graduated from Jamestown High School in 1951. In high school, he designed and built model cars and model airplanes.

He earned his Bachelor's of Arts degree in Business Management. He also pursued graduate school, earning his Master's of Arts degree from CSULB.

Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, Laurence enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. While growing up, he was especially close to his niece, Barbara, who was three weeks older than he. They remained close for his entire lifetime.

On August 29, 1953 Laurence exchanged wedding vows with Marvel Lorraine Scott at Christian and Missionary Alliance Church of Jamestown, New York.

Laurence was blessed with one child, daughter, Sheryl Diane Phillips. Another blessing for Laurence was the gift of one grandchild, Kenneth Christopher Wilson or best known as "Chris".

Laurence enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Laurence worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was Systems Analyst. He was employed for 17 years teaching high school and college. The balance of his working years was a Systems Analyst. Laurence always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

Laurence was an Army Veteran. He was a personnel specialist at Fort George G. Meade in Maryland. Laurence served during the Korean Conflict. He received a National Defense service medal.

Laurence found pleasure in sports. Tops on his list were basketball and football.

Laurence’s faith was important to him. He was a member of Fellowship in the Pass for 7 years as well as Crossroads Christian Church in Corona, CA for 38 years. During that time, he was a deacon and then an elder at Crossroads Christian Church.

Laurence enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included a tour of interior Alaska, a cruise through Panama Canal, hiking in Banff and Jasper National Parks.

Laurence was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was Gretzke, a Bouvier de Flanders dog. They were best friends for 9 years. His family was rounded out by his Ragdoll cat, Starlite.

He retired from full-time work in 2002, then from part-time work in 2008. Even in retirement, Laurence continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances.

Laurence passed away on April 4, 2010 at Yucaipa Board and Care in Yucaipa, CA. Laurence fought a brave battle against congestive heart failure, kidney failure, myasthenia gravis and finally dementia. He is survived by his wife Marvel, daughter Sheryl and grandson Chris. Services were held at Weaver Mortuary in Beaumont, CA. Laurence was laid to rest in Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, CA.

Simply stated, Laurence was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Laurence leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Laurence Ray Phillips.

Arrangements under the direction of Weaver Mortuary, Beaumont, CA.