Phillip “Phil” Diaz, 77, of Columbus, Georgia passed away on August 16, 2023. He was born in Redlands, California on November 28, 1945 to the late Ester Marquez Diaz and Philemon Diaz. Phil faithfully served his country in the United States Army during Vietnam where he was awarded several decorations, medals and commendations to include the National Defense Medal, VietNam Service Medal, Bronze Star, and Vietnam Campaign Medal to name a few. When Phil took his leave from the Army he settled in Columbus, Georgia where he met the love of his life, Elizabeth Mitchell, Phil and Elizabeth were married for more than 50 years.
He worked for many years with the Georgia Department of Transportation where he worked on heavy machinery. Phil loved and enjoyed his family, cars, and watching the Atlanta Falcons, boxing, and wrestling. Phil will be forever in the hearts of all who knew and especially loved him.
Phil leaves his loving memory to be cherished by his wife, Elizabeth Diaz; his daughters: Tracy Diaz Gonzales and Debra Diaz; his son Philemon Phillip Diaz; his sisters: Shellie Alonzo and Carol Chavez; along with numerous grandchildren, nieces, and nephews and other family members. He was predeceased by his parents, Ester and Philemon Diaz; his son Phillip Lee Diaz; his daughter Tammy Diaz; and his granddaughter, Hannah Beasley Creamer.
A Celebration of Phil’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 22, 2023 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM with military honors at 6:00 PM in the Mill Room at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, Columbus, Georgia.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy can be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the Diaz family.
