John Richard Phillips

John R. Phillips, 90, of Princeton, WV, formerly of Kimball, WV, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, June 9, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born December 14, 1930 to the late John Richard Phillips and Ethel Phillips Mabry in Kimball, WV.  He was preceded in death by his devoted and loving wife Christine.  They had been married for over 67 years before her passing in May 2020.  He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

He spent his childhood and most of his adult life in McDowell County but because of the 2001 flood, he and Chris moved to Princeton to be closer to their daughter Debbie.

John was a proud graduate of Northfork High School in 1949.  He and Chris enjoyed attending many class reunions and reminiscing with fellow classmates.

John began working for N & W Railroad as a teenager, following in his father’s footsteps, and continued working for N & S Railroad for over 45 years before retiring.  He collected many N & W and N & S Railroad memorabilia and displayed them in his den.  He was proud showing off his collection to anyone who visited him.  He was also a member of the Railroad Retirement Club.

He also was a huge WVU Mountaineer fan.  He and Chris watched all the WVU football and basketball games, and they would plan their day around the scheduled times.  He has a huge collection of WVU memorabilia he displayed having received most of them from his children and grandchildren.

John was a member of Houston United Methodist Church in Kimball, WV.  He attended St. Mary’s Orthodox Church in Bluefield, WV with Chris for many years.  He and Chris raised their children in a loving Christian home teaching them about Christianity and to be compassionate and loving to others.  They both continued sharing their spiritual lives with their grandchildren.  They were so proud of their children and grandchildren’s accomplishments in their lives.

Along with his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his only brother, Robert Phillips, and daughter-in-law, Kathy Phillips.

He is survived by his son, Daniel Phillips of Gary, WV and his children Marielle Messick (Brian), Scott Jessee (Heather), Haylie McPherson (Austin), and Landon Roberts; daughter, Deborah Bowlick (Jeffery) of Bluefield, WV and their children Jason Bowlick (Kerri) and Amanda Bowlick (Erik Jones); daughter, Martha Colo (Tony) and their children, Joseph Colo (Andreah) and Sarah Colo (Fletcher).

Special thanks to his healthcare givers Rena Finley, Rachel McCabe, and Sarah Wynn for their compassionate and professional care.  Also, the family would like to thank Compassus Hospice Care for their assistance.

A funeral service will be held at Woodlawn Mausoleum in Bluewell, WV on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at 2:00 PM with Pastor Marva Smearman officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:30 PM until the time of service.  Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to New Hope United Methodist Church, 4225 New Hope Road, Princeton, WV 24739 or to St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, 187 Justin Lane, Bluefield, WV 24701.  Online condolences will be accepted at www.cravens-shires.com.  Craven’s Shires Funeral Home in Bluewell, WV is serving the Phillips family.