James Lee Phillips

James Lee Phillips, 76, of Lima, was called home on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born on June 4, 1947, in Lima to the late Arthur and Anna {Bass} Phillips.

James married the love of his life, Gertrude {Hardman} Phillips on April 15, 1968, who preceded him in death in 2016.

James retired from Ford Motor Company. He enjoyed fishing and bowling and was an avid Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland Browns fan. “Pops” was known for his Baxter St. Garage basketball court where many in the community frequented.

He is survived by his children: Irvin (Tonya) Phillips, Robert (Christina) Phillips, Darrin (Jennifer) Phillips, Frenjula (Christopher) Jackson, Byron (Tracy) Phillips, and Jayme (Craig Keith) Phillips; grandchildren: Ciera, Robert Jr., Jordan, Damien, Jala, Spencer, Josiah, Shiloh, Canyon, Destine, Kelsey, Tyler, Kaylynn, O’Sheena, Lavada, Michael, Brooke, Shanice, Darenton, Ta’lor, Perkins, Zion, Gage, Tarique, Malia, Logan, Ambrazhay, and Quantel; 31 great-grandchildren; sister, Marilyn (Faye) Miles; and fur baby, Tink.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Gertrude; son, James “Little Jimmy” Phillips; brothers: Arthur Phillips Jr., Irvin Phillips Sr., Alvin Phillips and Herbert Phillips; sisters: Rosanna Dent, Marva Louise Young, Pauline Young, Juanita Greenwade and Mary Banks Middlebrook; as well as his beloved fur baby, Doggy Duke.

A Memorial Service will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima. Friends may visit one hour prior to the service. Brother Michael Skinner will officiate. Repass will follow at Bradfield Community Center.

Memorial contributions may be made to Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Hall, Allen County Humane Society, Allen County Council on Aging, or the Bradfield Community Center. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.