Nolan Gary Phillips

After a life dedicated to Christ and the service of others, Nolan Gary Phillips, 69, of Red Springs, was welcomed into the presence of his Savior on July 1, 2026. Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sharon; his parents, Nolan Phillips and Annette Phillips-Fordham; and his brother, William “Billy” Phillips.

Gary is survived by his cousins, Ann Matthews and family of Richmond, Virginia, and Mary Satterfield and family of Colonial Heights, Virginia; his mother-in-law, Frances Metlon-Kinlaw (Clifton) of Bladenboro; his brother-in-law, Scott Melton (Jennifer) of Lumberton; his nieces, Olivia Johnson, Emilee Dove (Nicholas), and Ava Melton; and his nephew, Aiden Melton.

He faithfully served in the National Guard, Civil Service (Mobilization Training Equipment Site), and as a Traffic Safety Patrol member with the Red Springs Fire Department. For 21 years, he worked for the U.S Postal Service, where he became a familiar and trusted friend to many throughout the community. Whether in uniform or on his mail route, Gary approached every responsibility with integrity, compassion, and unwavering devotion.

His faith was the foundation of his life. As a former deacon of the First Baptist Church of Red Springs, Gary served on numerous committees, co-directed the Baptist Men’s Ministry, and found great joy in ministering through the Baptist Mission Camp. Whatever the need, Gary answered God’s call with humility, generosity, and a willing heart.

Gary treasured genuine friendship and was blessed with many lifelong friends and fishing buddies. Some of his favorite memories were spent on the water with a fishing rod in hand, around a card table sharing stories and laughter, or simply enjoying quality time with these men whom he deeply loved. Throughout his life and, most recently, his courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, the steadfast presence of his brotherhood was a constant source of strength and joy. To all of his friends, and you know who you are, this is not goodbye; it’s simply another, “See you, man. I love you, brother.” From the family, a special thanks to Steve Nobles.

Known for his selfless and God-first spirit, Gary leaves behind a lasting impact on his church, community, family, and friends. His life reflected the hands and feet of Christ, and his example will continue to inspire all who knew him. May we all strive to give, serve, and answer God’s calling for our lives without hesitation, just as Gary did, carrying forward the seeds he so faithfully planted.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Baptist Men’s Ministry or the Youth Department of First Baptist Church of Red Springs.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 05, 2026 from 2:00-2:45 pm at First Baptist Church of Red Springs 710 E 4th Avenue, Red Springs, NC 28377. A service will follow at 3:00 pm with Pastor Gene Turner officiating.

Services will conclude at Alloway Cemetery Vance Street with Military Honors. 631 W 4th Avenue, Red Springs, NC 28377.

Services are entrusted to Crumpler Funeral Home.