Ronald Phillips

He was born in Highland Park, MI on August 8, 1933, the son of Harold and Mary Phillips.

Ron graduated from Baldwin High School in Birmingham, MI in 1951. He attended Michigan State University where he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music. It was during his time at Michigan State University where he met the love of his life, Ardis Elaine VanSyoc, whom he cherished for 68 years of their marriage.

Ron began his teaching career at Cass City High School and then Belding High School. He was well loved by his students, and they earned several honors and recognitions under his direction including a trip to perform at the World’s Fair in New York. He then relocated to Arizona where he became the Director of Instrumental Music at Grand Canyon College for over 25 years. Following his retirement from Grand Canyon he founded the Phoenix chapter of the New Horizons Band for senior citizens. He directed the concert band and participated as a trumpet player in the jazz ensemble, his primary instrument. In honor of his retirement, the band was named the “Ron Phillips New Horizons Band”.

Ron’s love of music and his efforts to share that love with others has not been limited to academia, performing, or conducting. He has nurtured many private students around the valley and found a way for his students to see the greater benefits of music education.

Ron had many interests including traveling, camping, fishing, riding motorcycles, aviation, following the local professional sports teams and driving his beloved 1963 Corvette.

Ron is survived by his wife, Ardis, sons Steve (Carol) of Black Canyon City and Derek (Shirley) of Cave Creek. He was the proud grandfather to several grandchildren and great- grandchildren. He was also a wonderful uncle to several nieces and nephews.

He will be lovingly missed and remembered for his witty humor, dedication, compassion, and his love of family, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him.

A memorial service is being held on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at 10:00 am at the Phoenix Mortuary Park, 200 W Beardsley Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85027.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Ron Phillips New Horizons Band or St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.phoenixmemorialmortuary.com for the Phillips family.