James Franklin Phillips Sr.

Born October 16, 1933 in Norphlet, Arkansas, he was the son of Grady Pierce and Jewel Mae Porter Phillips. James was the owner and operator of Phillips Well Service for twenty-two years. He also worked in the maintenance department of Medical Center of South Arkansas before retiring. James proudly served his country during the Korean War with the U. S. Army. He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, listening to music on his back porch, spending time at the river and being outdoors. But most of all he enjoyed time with his family.

He was a member of First Baptist Church of Smackover where he was a Deacon and a member of the McHaney Sunday School Class.

James was such a great man of God with a servant’s heart. He was well respected in the community and loved by everyone. This speaks volumes as to the man, husband, father, grandfather (aka “Papa”) and great-grandfather (aka “Papa in the woods”) that he was. He had a deep love for his family, and what precious memories they will always have to cherish. James had many dear friends. He loved being a prankster and just having fun every day of his life. He always lived for the moment. You would never hear anyone say anything bad about him. As it has been said, “If more people were like James Phillips, this world would be a better place.”

James is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Libbye of 50 years, sister, Hilda Teer, and brothers, Martin, Roy, and Herbert Phillips.

Survivors include his daughter, Tina Phillips Rischbieter (Timothy) of The Town of Day, NY, sons, Jim Phillips (Tina) of El Dorado, and Rod Phillips (Candy) of Smackover. Surviving grandchildren are Jennifer Herrera, Hope Tarlton (Taylor), Clark Rischbieter, Katelyn Osborn (David), Annie Phillips and Evan Phillips along with four great-grandchildren, Ryker Herrera, Owen Tarlton, Brantley Osborn and Emma-Kate Tarlton.

Visitation will be held beginning at 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 2, 2020 at First Baptist Church of Smackover with services beginning at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Carley Davis and Rev. Raymond Carneal officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Smackover Cemetery under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Family Life Center, 201 W. 7th Street, Smackover, AR 71762.

Condolences may be expressed at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.