Hugh "Butch" Edwards Phillips' Obituary
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we honor the life of Sergeant Major Hugh “Butch" Phillips, a man whose strength, service, and love left a lasting mark on all who knew him.
He is survived by his son, Steven Phillips of Hicks, LA; daughters, Cheryl (Mike) Hunsicker of Gatesville, TX, Angela (Keith) Peters of Beech Creek, PA, and Lea Hurst of Colorado Springs, CO; sister, Claudia Doiron of Lufkin, TX; grandchildren, Kimberlee Hunsicker, Kenneth Hunsicker, Stormi Hegefeld (Ryan), Chase Cole (Makaylee), Daniel Phillips, Dakota Phillips (Mya), Whitney Rupert (Brad), Madison McGill (Ethan), Christian Hurst, Ariel Hurst and Noah Hurst (Savanna); 14 great grandchildren and best friend Greg Carter.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh Phillips Sr. and Helen Carter Phillips; wife, Gail Phillips, and daughter-in-law, Stacey Phillips.
Butch devoted over 30 years of his life to the United States Army, rising to the rank of Sergeant Major. A highly decorated veteran, served his country with unwavering dedication, leadership, and pride. He was awarded the prestigious Legion of Merit and 3 Meritorious Service medals. He was respected not only for his accomplishments, but for the integrity, discipline, and quiet strength he carried every day.
To his family, Butch was so much more than his title. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loving grandfather, and a cherished great-grandfather. His family was the center of his world, and he took great joy in the time spent with them—sharing stories, laughter, and lessons that will live on for generations.
Outside of his service, Butch found peace and happiness in the outdoors. He loved fishing, where patience and quiet moments reflected his steady nature. He was also a dedicated NASCAR fan. Being a race driver in his youth, always enjoying the thrill of the race and the simple pleasure of cheering on his favorites.
Butch lived a life defined by honor, commitment, and love. He led by example, stood strong for those he cared about, and never wavered in his values. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to guide and inspire his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Military Honor Guard will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Buddy, Mike, Daniel, Dakota, Chase, Kenneth, Christian, and Noah.
The family wishes to thank his nurses, Heather, Katelyn, and Kasey.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 12:00 P.M. at Hicks Pentecostal Church.
Burial will follow in the Hicks Pentecostal Church Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Monday, March 23rd, from 5:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville and again on Tuesday, March 24th, from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service at the church.
Sergeant Major Butch will be remembered with respect, with admiration, and above all, with love.
Words of comfort may be expressed to the family at https://www.labbymemorialfh.com
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