Luther Ray Phillips, 80, passed away peacefully at the Wisconsin Veteran Home in Union Grove surrounded by his loving family on January 31, 2024. He was born in Warren, Arkansas to Martha (Johnson) Phillips and Clar Phillips on May 31, 1943; however, he enjoyed living the majority of his life in Racine, Wisconsin. At 18, Luther was drafted as an aircraft engine mechanic into the U.S. Navy where he honorably served from 1961 to 1967 in the Vietnam War. Upon returning from Vietnam, Luther continued his career as a line supervisor for Interlake Packaging until his retirement in 2008.

During his lifetime, Luther developed countless hobbies: bowling, golfing, softball, fishing, and playing bingo. He also enjoyed listening and dancing to funk or soul music, collecting pig figurines, obsessing over the weather, and eating Frosted Flakes straight out of the box! Luther was a kind, hardworking, outgoing man who loved his family with all his heart.
Luther is survived by his loving ex-wives, Daisy Hale and Suzette DesRocher; his children Kevin Phillips, Lori Phillips, Luther Phillips JR, Brigette (DesRocher) Edinger, Samantha (Phillips) Castillo, Cecily (Phillips) Charles; his siblings Theopolis Phillips, Denise (Phillips) Andrews, Duane Phillips, Clarence Phillips, and Clara (Phillips) Turner; and numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Luther is preceded in death by his father Clar Phillips and his mother Martha (Johnson) Phillips, and his siblings Irma (Phillips) Lean Wahl, Artis Phillips, Rollie Phillips, and Dennis “Shack” Phillips.

Visitation will be held on February 13, 2024, from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM, followed by the Funeral Service and military honors from 11:00 AM-12:00 PM at Pinelawn Memorial Park (10700 West Capitol Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53222), private invite only graveside burial to follow. Luther’s family would be honored if guests could join in fellowship at his celebration of life gathering following the services (exact time and location TBD). Music, food, and beverages will be provided.

A heartfelt thank you to all of the dedicated staff of the Wisconsin Veteran Home in Union Grove for taking such exceptional care of Luther. The Vitas Hospice team for providing personalized and compassionate care. The Informed Choice Funeral & Cremation Alternatives and the staff of Pinelawn Memorial Park for hosting the viewing and services.

Go Fund Me link (in lieu of flowers)

https://everloved.com/life-of/luther-phillips/donate/