James M. Phillips' Obituary
James “Jim” Phillips, of Pitkin, Louisiana passed away on December 20th, 2018 at his home, at the age of 76. Born on February 18th, 1942, in Big Timber, Montana to Stanley and Johnnie Phillips, Jim was raised in and around the Livingston, Montana area until graduating from Park County High School in Livingston.
Upon graduation, Jim entered the Marine Corps where he served with honor and distinction for 20 years, ultimately retiring in May of 1979. During his time in the Marines, Jim served in Force Recon, then transitioning into Aviation later in his career. He served around the world, including 2 tours in Vietnam, and multiple deployments to southeast Asia during his time in Force Recon. During his career in the Marine Corps, he married Gail, and they had two sons, Chris and Scott.
After retiring from the Marine Corps, Jim and his family eventually settled in the Anacoco, Louisiana area while he worked Federal Civil Service at Fort Polk, Louisiana. While Jim worked for the Federal Government, he also graduated with honors from Northwestern State University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree. Also, during this time, Jim donated his time as a Reserve Sheriff’s Deputy for the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office while helping Gail raise their two sons. Jim retired from Civil Service after 22 years of service, totaling 42 years of service to the military, and ultimately to his nation.
Towards the end of his career with the Federal Civil Service, Jim and Gail relocated to Pitkin, Louisiana, where they enjoyed watching their grandchildren grow up, and great-grandchildren play. They also attended Arkadelphia Baptist Church, where Jim accepted Christ and was baptized.
Due to his time spent in Vietnam, and exposure to Agent Orange, Jim battled several health issues until succumbing to them. During this time, he served as an example of the willing sacrifice he gave to his country, to both of his sons, and to his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Mary Gail Phillips. Two sons; Chris and his wife Melita, of DeRidder, LA, and Scott and his wife Deborah, of Pitkin, LA. Nine grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Bill Phillips, of Livingston, MT; his brother-in-law, Ted Lamprich of Farmerville, LA; and his sister-in-law Jean Guidry of Baton Rouge, LA. He is proceeded in death by his parents, Stanley and Johnnie Phillips, and also by his beloved sister-in-law, Carol Phillips.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a favorite veteran organization.
Visitation will begin Wednesday, December 26, 2018, from 5 PM until 9:00 PM, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. Visitation will begin Thursday, December 27, 2018, from 8:00 AM until 10:00 AM, in the Arkadelphia Baptist Church in Pitkin, LA, Funeral service will start at 10:00 AM with Rev. Brent Maxwell officiating. Internment will follow at Arkadelphia Cemetery, Pitkin, LA under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home.
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