Richard Eugene Phillips, Jr.

CPO (SW) Richard Eugene Phillips, Jr. USN (Ret) age 62, of New Orleans, LA, passed away on April 9, 2020 at the VA Hospital from complications of the Coronavirus. Rick proudly served his country for 23 years and retired with the rank of Chief Petty Officer (Radioman). He was assigned to the USS Ross (DDG-71) (plank-owner). He served on both east and west coasts, ship and shore commands including: NTTC NEW ORLEANS, LA, NAVCAMSLANT, NORFORLK, VA, AND USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65) making numerous overseas deployments in various areas of operation and taking part in military operations including, OPERATION EARNEST WILL, OPERATION PRAYING MANTIS, DESERT SHIELD, AND DESERT STORM. Rick earned many awards and commendations including sea service, campaign, expeditionary and meritorious service awards as well as earning good conduct (4) and Navy achievement medals. He worked hard for his rank and title and served with honor and commitment to his country. Rising through the enlisted ranks, he learned about leadership, then inspired and motivated those who served with him and for him. Rick was the "epitome" of the Navy Chief. After his retirement from the Navy, Rick became a REALTOR® and worked for Weichert, Realtors-Prestige Homes.

Rick devoted his life to caring and providing for his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and uncle. He was always willing to lend a hand when his friends and family were in need. He always put others ahead of his own needs.

Rick had a strong passion for bowling and the invaluable friendships he made along the way. His endearing personality and kind heart touched every one who knew him. Rick achieved various bowling awards that included many 300 games and 800 series. He was a director of the Greater New Orleans USBC, member of The National Bowling Association (TNBA), Senior All Star Bowling Association (SASBA) and NOLA Doubles. Member of the New Orleans Metropolitan Association of Realtors (NOMAR). Rick also enjoyed riding his Goldwing Bike and travels to both the east and west coasts with his riding club. He was a member of A.B.A.T.E. of Louisiana, Inc. He enjoyed traveling and experiencing new adventures. A member of Patriot Guard Riders (PGR). PGR is an internet based organization that forms an honor guard at military burials and greets troops returning from overseas. He also enjoyed going to Saints games and following his basketball teams.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard Eugene Phillips, Sr. and Gwendolyn Mitchell Phillips, and his nephew, First Lieutenant Jonathan David Rozier.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Roberta Arnoult Phillips, his loving daughter, Johanna Phillips Monzon; his son-in-law, Gean Monzon; his sister, Barbara Phillips Rozier (David); his grandchildren, Leah Staehle, Larry Staehle and Gean Monzon, Jr.; his niece, Elizabeth Rozier; his nephews, Benjamin Rozier and Joshua Rozier and their children and a host of other relatives and friends.

Due to current conditions, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.