Fred was born October 29, 1942 in St. Charles, Virginia. Fred was the middle son of Howard Phillips and Alice Collins. As a young man, Fred moved to Kansas City, Missouri where he met his now wife and the light of his life Diane (Johnston) Phillips.
Fred was a truck driver for many years and was a proud member of the Teamsters Union. It was no secret that Fred loved to work with his hands. This passion led him away from trucking and into his own business. His dream of Fred Phillips construction became a reality and his Pride and Joy. While it was primarily Kansas City that got to enjoy Fred’s can-do attitude, he also shared his talents in Nebraska, Branson, and all over the Midwest. Fred “semi-retired” in 2015 but could never give up his love for work.
Fred and Diane were proud members of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church and lived for the fellowship of his friends and community group. Fred enjoyed being involved with the church and was forever wanting to grow and learn is his faith. He was able to accomplish this through serving in the only ways he knew how; through building improvements, participating in community service, and spending time with others who also took their faith seriously. This time with friends allowed everyone to help each other enjoy and grow in their Christian lives.
The gifts and skills that God gave Fred have blessed others not just in his church or his company but all around the world. While following a life with Christ, Fred used his construction skills in ways he never thought possible. Fred traveled to Russia, Haiti, and New Jersey to carry the Lord’s message through boards, nails, and lots of laughs.
With a smile that could change the mood of a room in an instant Fred was always going out of his way for anyone. Fred was the foundation of our family, our faith, and was always the light of the room. Our family finds great comfort in knowing that Fred no longer struggles and is in heaven with our family and Savior. Fred will be missed dearly.
Fred’s greatest joy was his family and his friends. He lived life to its fullest and made a lifetime of memories hunting, travelling, and of course; spending time with his grandkids, kids, and family. Fred is survived by his wife; Diane Phillips, children; Connie Burrow (Todd) of Liberty, MO, Debbie Phillips-Boldridge of Kansas City, MO, Troy Phillips (Andrea) of Kansas City, MO, and his grandchildren Tyler Burrow, Hannah Burrow, Corben Phillips, Camryn Phillips, and Collin Boldridge. Fred also leaves behind an extended family and Gizmo, his four-legged buddy.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents Howard Phillips and Alice Collins as well as his brothers Ronnie and Donald Phillips.
We thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and memories.
