Jeffrey Wayne Phillips

Jeffrey Wayne Phillips (Jeff), peacefully passed away on April 1st, 2024, at the age of 64 with loved ones at his side. Jeff was born on September 21st, 1959, in Newark, Ohio to James Raymond Phillips Sr., who was an automotive mechanic, and to Patricia Christine Phillips, a housewife/mother.

Jeff was born and raised in Hebron Ohio and graduated from Lakewood high school. Prior to graduation he enlisted in the US Air Force through the delayed enlistment program and upon his graduation he went on active duty in the Air Force in September of 1977. During his years in the Air Force, he served as an aircraft hydraulic systems mechanic and a team member; as a mechanic on the E-4B Aircraft, The National Emergency Airborne Command Post Presidential Aircraft, also known as the famous “Doomsday Aircraft.” He also worked on cargo and transport aircrafts, reconnaissance aircrafts, and aerial refueling tanker aircraft.

His most memorable experience was when he met President Ronald Reagan on a presidential support mission from Texas to Washington DC. During his time his station included, Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, NE, Incirlik Air Force Base in Turkey, Hellenikon Air Force Base in Greece, Hickam Air Force Base in Honolulu, HI, and his final station was at March Air Force Base in Riverside, CA. He toured during both Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, serving 13.5 years until he was honorably discharged in April 1991 due to a back injury. Jeff was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans, a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the American Legion. After his discharge, Jeff continued to serve, as a U.S. Postal Serviceman in Norfolk, NE until his retirement 18.5 years later. Jeff was proud to say that he spent over 32 years working in federal government service.

Jeff is survived by his dear wife Laran of more than 40 years, his son Jeffrey and longtime girlfriend Kiesha, Grandson Caleb “I Love you Papa” and his daughter Courtney and son-in-law Scott. He is preceded by death by his Father James Sr., Mother Patricia, brothers James Jr. and Michael, aunts Helen and Lois, Grandmother Bertha and his beloved dog Cubby.

A funeral service for Jeffrey will be held Saturday, April 6, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home, 5701 Center St, Omaha, Nebraska 68106.