Ralph Phillips was 1 of 10 children born to Ocie and Mary Lizzie Phillips on 12/16/1945 in Roanoke, Alabama. A Vietnam-era veteran, Ralph found that he had both an entrepreneurial spirit and a talent for fixing appliances. After settling in New York he owned and operated refrigerator repair businesses for many years.
Ralph’s worldview was shaped by growing up in the South and his willingness to express an opinion on the political issues of the day was well-known. His pride in his black heritage was unwavering!
Ralph passed away peacefully with family by his side. He is survived by his wife, Janice Coleman, four children, Regina, Ralph Jr., Shatika, and Monique, 8 grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. We will always carry his memory in our hearts.