John Edward Phillips

John Edward Phillips, 81, of Joanna, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, June 20, 2025. His passing leaves a huge empty space in the hearts of all who knew him, especially his family and closest friends.

He was born on March 10, 1944, in Greenville, SC, and was the son of the late Ray and Janie Rowland Phillips. He retired from the Torrington Company in Clinton, SC, where he dedicated 40 years of service.

John gave his heart to Lord at an early age and was a steadfast Christian whose faith guided every path of his life. He was a devoted member of the Joanna Church of God, where he faithfully attended until his recent illness. He was a man of character—humble, sincere, thoughtful, respectful, and straightforward. Known for his friendly nature and kind-heartedness, John never met a stranger and was truly a friend to all who knew him and he will be greatly missed. He was a devoted and proud husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished his family with all his heart and held a deep, unwavering love for them. He found great happiness in spending time with his family and his beloved dog, Bear. Among his favorite pastimes were day trips to the mountains and outings to car shows and auctions with his best friend, Dan Wooten.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Jeanette Phillips; his children, Kenneth “Ken” Phillips of Joanna and Cheryl Gurney (Derek) of Greenwood; his granddaughters, Lacey Gurney of Greenwood and Kayla Hoxworth (Avery) of Evans, GA; and his great-grandchildren, Alexander, Landon, Elizabeth, and Owen Hoxworth, all of Evans, GA.

Also surviving are his sisters, Joann Bryant (Ted) of Latta; and Kathy Jones (Mike) of New Bern, NC; and his brothers, Harold Phillips (Vicki) of Spartanburg; and David Phillips (Marsha) of New Bern, NC.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Faye Edwards, and his brothers, Carroll Phillips and Clint Phillips.

The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff at VIA Health Partners of Clinton, for the compassionate care and support provided to John during his illness and to the many friends and church family members who have offered support during this time.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Joanna Church of God at 2:00 PM with Pastor Gene Wooten and Rev. Stacey Strickland officiating. Cremation to follow.

The family will greet visitors prior to the service from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM at the Church.

In lieu of flowers, please honor John with memorials to Joanna Church of God, 124 S. Main St. Joanna, SC 29351, or VIA Health Partners, PO Box 178, Clinton, SC 29325.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com

Gray Funeral Home of Clinton is assisting the Phillips family with arrangements.