William "Bill" H. Phillips

William H. "Bill" Phillips, 91, of Indianapolis, passed away on September 6, 2013. Bill was born on September 3, 1922, to the late Carlos T. and Ina O. Phillips. His passing was preceded by brothers Horace and Maurice Phillips, and his sister Evelyn (Phillips) Prather.

He spent his early youth in Harrodsburg, KY before the family moved to Indiana. After graduating Beech Grove High School, Bill began his apprenticeship as sheet metal worker. His apprenticeship was interrupted when he joined the Marine Corps and, after boot camp, was assigned to Marine Corps Bomber Squadron VMB-433 as an aircraft mechanic on the PBJ medium bomber. During WW II, he was stationed at various islands – Espiritu Santo, Green Island, and Emirau Island - in the South Pacific. After his discharge from the Marine Corps, he continued as a sheet metal apprentice, afterwards achieving journeyman status. He practiced that trade until his retirement. He also taught the sheet metal trade through the union apprentice program for several years. He was a member of Sheet Metal Workers Local #20 for over 70 years.

In May, 1975, Bill accomplished his longtime ambition of acquiring his Private Pilot license. This achievement was particularly meaningful to his family. He was a member of Wings of Greenwood Pilots Club. Also during his retirement years, he and his wife became interested in collecting antique glass and they joined the Hoosier Depression Era Glass Club. They spent many weekends traveling to auctions to pursue their interest in collecting various pieces of antique glass. After he became a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Local #20 Retirees Club, he enjoyed spending time and reminiscing with former co-workers and students he taught in the apprentice program. He and Jean also volunteered regularly at the union food bank.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Betty "Jean", two daughters, Lynn Schmoll and Jan Scott, and his son, Dennis (Linda) Phillips, four grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at Little and Sons- Stop 11 Chapel on Tuesday, September 10, 2013, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Funeral Services will be at the funeral home on Wednesday, September 11, 2013, at 10:00 a.m.