Born in Greenville, South Carolina, he was the son of the late James Charles Phillips and Marie Hudson Phillips and was predeceased by his beloved wife of 69 years, Florine Gilstrap Phillips.
Alvin joined the Army and served his country in World War II, sustaining injuries in Czechoslovakia and earning the Purple Heart medal. Alvin returned home from the war and started a general contracting business, becoming a well-known local businessman.
Alvin had a strong relationship with God and faithfully served his church in many capacities, from deacon to carpenter. He was a member of East North Street Baptist Church, formerly Rock Hill Baptist Church, for 93 years.
He is survived by his son, William A. “Billy” Phillips, Jr.; his sisters, Geraldine Crane and Martha Garner; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son, Gary Charles Phillips in 2017 and his daughter, Elizabeth Bowers in 2007; his sisters Barbara Cathcart and Jean Finch; his brothers, James Perry Phillips and Joe Doyle Phillips; and four siblings who died in childhood.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 9, 2019 at 11:00 am in the Chapel at Mackey Funerals and Cremations on Century Drive. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 9:30 – 10:45 am at the mortuary. A committal will follow the service at East North Street Baptist Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the East North Street Baptist Church Building Fund, 4108 East North Street, Greenville, SC 29607.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at MackeyMortuary.com.
