Joseph Andrew Phillips

Joseph A. Phillips (aka “Joe, “Uncle Joe,” Granddaddy” and the “The Grinch”), was born on October 26, 1938, in Manassas, Virginia to the union of Thomas H. Phillips and Hilda H. Harris. Mr. Phillips graduated from Manassas Regional High School in 1956. He earned an undergraduate degree in Education from Virginia State University in Petersburg, Virginia in 1960, and a master’s degree from George Washington University in 1967. Mr. Phillips married Doris B. Lipscomb on April 28, 1963, and from their union two children were born, Cheryl and Timothy.

Mr. Phillips accepted Christ at the age of 15 at the First Baptist Church, Manassas, Virginia. As a young boy, he helped his parents on their small farm with 10 other siblings. When he was older, he worked at the local drug store making ice cream. He enjoyed reading and crossword puzzles in his spare time. He was very diligent with his schoolwork and worked his way through college.

Mr. Phillips taught in the D.C. public school system from 1960 to 1975. He became a school administrator from 1975 to 1995. His last position was a vice-principal at Ketchum Elementary School. He was an advocate for children’s education throughout his career and was admired by the students and the faculty. After retiring from the D.C. public school system Mr. Phillips had numerous part time jobs, most notably was his service to the U.S. Bureau of the Census and to the University of the District of Columbia as a GED Examiner.

It was at Ketchum where he established a close and endearing friendship with Mrs. Romaine Thomas that included her late husband the Honorable Harry Thomas, Sr., a former Ward 5 Councilman. Harry Sr. and Joe were often seen together doing community service in Ward 5 and throughout the city at large. Mr. Phillips was also instrumental in assisting getting Harry Thomas Jr. elected as Ward 5 Councilman. He served as Harry Jr.’s treasurer during his term and was often by his side aiding Harry Jr. at Ward 5 community events as well as events throughout the city.

Mr. Phillips was a uniquely dedicated community servant. He was an active member of the of the Queens Chapel Civic Association and served as President for several years and later as Treasurer. He continued to work very closely with the current president, Mrs. Charlotte Lewis. Mr. Phillips also worked silently behind the scenes on many campaigns for several DC government officials. Mr. Phillips established many close relationships through his service with the community. In later life, he provided personal service to Mr. Joseph Bowser, who was his “road companion”. This blossomed into a close and dear friendship with Mr. Bowser and his family.

In 2019, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Doris, and in earlier years by his parents, brothers, and three sisters. Mr. Phillips was a loving and caring husband, father, and loyal friend who did not hesitate to offer kindness and generosity to others. He loved to joke with family and close friends. He also loved to cook and bake. He personally delivered hundreds of his famous monkey breads and rum cakes as treasured gifts to family and friends. He was immensely proud of his children. Timothy graduated from the United States Naval Academy; was a former U.S. Naval Seal and is now General Counsel for the American Cancer Society. Cheryl who graduated with an accounting degree from Mount St. Mary’s University; received her CPA license, and is now a loan officer at the U.S. Export-Import Bank.

Mr. Phillips leaves a rich legacy and loving family; daughter, Cheryl D. (Norris) Arceneaux of Fredericksburg, VA; son Timothy B. Phillips of Marietta, GA, and two grandsons, Jacob M. and Miles J. Phillips; sisters Clarice Brown, Catherine Nickens, Roxie Giles, and Chere Green. He was truly blessed with many nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins, and friends.