David R. Phillips

David R. Phillips, 92, beloved husband of Sue Rageas Phillips, passed away peacefully at his home in Orland Park, Illinois, on September 13, 2023. Born in St. Louis, Missouri to Alroy and Mildred Phillips, he is survived by a sister, Edith Good; Sister-in-law Angie Krumbein; Children, Rick (Laurie), Michael (Sandy), and Patrick (Lara); The Disch children; Candy, Barry, Ginger, Pepper, Robert, and Holly, much loved grandchildren; and by MC Gipson, as well as by Sarah and Alan Hancock of Vancouver, BC.

An award-winning photographer, author, producer of television specials, and film-maker, he began as Chief Photographer at Monsanto in St. Louis before relocating to Chicago to work as a freelancer for publications such as Fortune and Life. Paralleling his career was his passion for history, collecting and preserving thousands of early glass plate negatives, which resulted in The David Phillips Collection, the largest private archives of historically important images depicting all aspects of American life with a special focus on Chicago. He made the photos accessible to the public through books, lectures, and exhibitions. David was the recipient of many awards and honors from organizations such as the National Urban League. His own work was honored by the International Center of History in NYC sponsored by Jacqueline Onassis. A celebration of Dave's life will be held at a later date.