Dr. Pat Phillips

After graduating from Ashdown High School, Pat attended the University of Arkansas for three years, where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He graduated from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 1957. Following graduation, he did a one year internship in Tulsa, OK. Pat enlisted in the US Army, where he served as a captain for two years. He was stationed at Fort Sill, OK. Pat completed Obstetrics and Gynecology residency in Kansas City, KS, where he trained for three years. In 1963, Pat moved with the love of his life, Annette and their family to Fort Smith, AR to start private practice with OB/GYN Associates. He worked professionally in Fort Smith for 34 years, delivering many babies in the area. He was well loved and respected by many.

During his professional career, he was active in the medical community, working at both Sparks Medical Center and St. Edward Mercy Medical Center. He served as Chief of Staff at Sparks Hospital. He was involved in the progress of medicine, being instrumental in bringing to Fort Smith one of the first outpatient surgery centers, which still exists to this day at Baptist Medical Center (Sparks). He served at the state level as past President of the Arkansas Medical Society and was on the board of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arkansas for almost 25 years.

Pat was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church in Fort Smith. He was on multiple boards and committees, including the building committee, which saw a large expansion to the current church. He was a teacher of the Discussion Class for many years. Not one to shy away from controversial topics, he brought a spark to many lively discussions. One of his greatest attributes was his love of people. His personality would fill a room. He was a loyal friend, and in return, had and still has many loyal friends today.

Our father was the cornerstone of our family and his absence will leave a large void. He wasn’t just our father. He was our confidante, guide and strength. We loved him more than words can describe. He leaves us with memories of times he encouraged us to push forward and explore our world whether it was summers at the lake, waterskiing, scuba diving and fishing or winters in Colorado snow skiing. Most importantly, he was there for us. There was nothing in our lives he didn’t help us walk through, and we will forever be grateful for his presence and love.

Pat is preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Annette, whom he adored. He is also preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Edwin Earle Phillips.

In June of 1957, Pat and Annette, both graduated from medical school and nursing school, respectively. They married that same month. They eventually settled and raised their family in Fort Smith, AR. They were blessed with three children, eight grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and two step great-grandchildren. Pat is survived by his children, Kevin (Sumer) Phillips, Sarajane (Dennis) Robertson, Patti Ann (Greg) Aclin; grandchildren, Chase Phillips, Kara Phillips, Deni Robertson Pitonyak, David (Jill) Robertson, Randle Robertson, Katherine (Hunter) Itzen, Sarah Aclin, Will Aclin; great-grandchildren, Annie Jane Pitonyak, Parker Robertson, John David Robertson, Lucas Pitonyak; step great-grandchildren, Jillian and Colbie; sister-in-law, Barna Jane Graves; sister-in-law, Jo Gwen Phillips; nephew, J. D. (Bennie) Phillips; nieces, Debbie (Pete) Livingston, Laura (Tom) Kottenstette, and Kathy (Charlie) Drago.

He also leaves behind his “second family”, his caregivers; Natasha Bigelow, Bakhiry Diggs, Dakota Diggs, and Christian Almond.

Visitation will be Sunday, April 2, 2023, from 2-4 PM at Edwards Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be at 11:30 AM Monday, April 3, 2023, in Roebuck Chapel, at First United Methodist Church under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Burial to follow at Fort Smith National Cemetery.

Honorary pallbearers will be: Kevin Phillips, J.D. Phillips, Chase Phillips, David Robertson, Will Aclin, Bakhiry Diggs, and Christian Almond.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First United Methodist Church.

Online condolences may be sent to; www.edwardsfuneralhome.com