Joe Elliott Phillips

Apr 14, 1946 -

May 3, 2020

Joe Elliott Phillips, affectionately called Grandad, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2020, at the age of 74, at his winter home in Mesquite, Nev. Joe was born in Bonham, Texas, on April 14, 1946. Shortly after high school, he joined the United States Army and served his country faithfully for three years. After his military service he attended East Texas State University, graduating with a bachelor's degree. Following his college graduation, Joe joined the United States Postal Inspection Service as a federal agent. In 1976, his career took him to his dream location: Alaska. While working for the Postal Service he met his sweetheart, Kathy Jane Phillips, and the two married in 1980. They began their journey together and settled in Anchorage, Alaska, where their hearts belonged.

Joe was an avid hunter and outdoorsman. He loved to spend his time reading, watching his favorite shows and movies, traveling and writing poetry about Alaska, his experiences and his family. His most cherished memories are of the time spent with family, especially his grandchildren. He was a smart, thoughtful, loving man who freely gave advice, perspective and the best history lessons to anyone who would listen. He lived a life full of friendship, adventure and love.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Dick Phillips and Lanelle Phillips Southerland. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; daughters, Ronda and Ginger; and cousin, Claud Elliott. He was the proud Grandad to five grandchildren, Nathaniel and his wife Blair, John, Tanner, Zachary and Carson; and two great-grandchildren, Caden and Isla, all of whom are still living. Grandad left a legacy of love that will be felt for generations and he is sorely missed.

"Now the old man plots and the old man schemes

The old man plans and the old man dreams

But he loves his kin and he needs his clan

There's some that think he is a good old man"

- Joe E. Phillips