John "Phil" Phillip O'Steen

John Phillip (Phil) O’Steen, 86, of Signal Mountain, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, surrounded by his family. A native of Chattanooga, he was the son of the late Annie Lou and John Richard O’Steen. He went to City High, class of ’58, and was a post grad of McCallie School, class of ‘59. He went on to pursue a teaching degree from Austin Peay State University. He was a history major where he taught at City High and coached football and wrestling. He later became a sales engineer for Electric Motor Sales for one of his dearest friends, James Steffner. His hobbies included flying with his father-in-law, Dale F. Studer.

More than anything, Phil was a devoted family man who found his greatest joy in the people he loved. He was a loving husband, a proud father, and an even prouder grandfather. His family could always count on him for guidance, encouragement, and a helping hand whenever it was needed.

Phil had a way of making people feel welcome and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He never knew a stranger. He was known for his sense of humor, his generosity, and his willingness to put others before himself. He enjoyed spending his time at the cabin, watching his favorite sports teams (Go Vols!), working on projects around the house, and, most of all, being surrounded by family.

Those who knew Phil will remember not only the things he accomplished, but the way he made people feel. He taught his family the importance of hard work, kindness, loyalty, and taking care of one another. His presence will be deeply missed, but the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the love he gave so freely will continue through his family for generations to come.

He is survived by his wife, Paula S. O’Steen; his children, Betsy Coleman (Gary Coleman), David O’Steen, Ashlee O’Steen (Tyler Rogers), Heidi O’Steen Cruz, Annie O’Steen (Veronica O’Steen), Debbee O’Steen Parker (Thomas Parker); his grandchildren, Tripp Coleman, John Trent Coleman, Huckleberry Rogers, Ashton Conibear, Avery O’Steen, Payton O’Steen, Emory O’Steen, Rylee Parker, Liam Parker, Collin Parker, and Iris Cruz; great grandchildren, Stryder Coleman and Freya Coleman.

A visitation will be held on Monday, September 7 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at Chattanooga Funeral Home North Chapel – Hixson located at 5401 TN-153, Hixson, TN 37343. Funeral services to follow at 4:00pm, with Father John Dowling officiating.

Committal Service will be held on Tuesday, September 8 at 10:00am at Hamilton Memorial Gardens, Chapel of Devotion.

Arrangements are under the care of the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com