James Phillips

Mr. James W. Phillips formerly of Vienna, Ohio, died on Friday (04-24-2009) at 7:15PM at the Bethesda North Hospital in Cincinnati, OH after a brief illness. He was 88 years old. James was born in Brookfield, OH on June 8, 1920, son of the late George W. and Mary E. (King) Phillips. Mr. Phillips went on to serve his country in the United States Army during World War II. His decorations and citations include the American Theater Ribbon, Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with one bronze Star, the Good Conduct Medal, the Meritorious Unit Award, and the World War II Victory Medal. Following the war he went on to marry the former Rita D. Curry on May 15, 1948. Together they would share fifty-four years of marriage. Mr. Phillips worked as an automotive mechanic at Clyde Cole Motors for more than forty-three years before his retirement in 1985. He was a member of the Vienna VFW Post #3521 and St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church in Vienna. Earlier in life he enjoyed bowling in numerous leagues. His lifelong passions included fishing, shooting pool, and golf. His life was enriched by the companionship of his dogs Casey, Rascal, and Rex with whom he enjoyed taking daily walks. Mr. Phillips is survived by his two sons Jim Phillips and his wife Joanne of Charleston, SC and Paul Phillips and his wife Janet of Loveland, OH; two daughters Peg Bruggeman and her husband John of Cincinnati, OH and Edith Phillips of Cleveland, OH; two grandsons Matthew and Nathan Phillips also survive. He was preceded in death by his wife in 2003, his parents, and his sister Margaret King. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 AM Friday at St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church, with Rev. Frank Zanni, Pastor. Calling hours will be Thursday evening from 6-8 PM at the Madasz Funeral Chapel, Brookfield. Burial will be in Brookfield Township Cemetery where full military honors will take place. As an expression of sympathy, the family suggests contributions be made to your local animal shelter.