Obituary For Donald M. Phillips

Donald M. Phillips,75, of Lanett, Alabama passed away on April 22, 2021, at UAB Hospital in Birmingham Alabama.

The family will greet friends on Wednesday, April 28, 2021, from 1:00-2:00 pm EDT at Bluffton Funeral Services in Lanett, Alabama, followed by a Memorial service at the Chapel of Bluffton Funeral Services at 2:00 pm EDT.

He was born November 10, 1945, at West Point Hospital in Georgia to parents Cora Owens Phillips (Mother) and Alvin Guy Phillips (Father). Don graduated Valley High School in 1964. He was a graduate of Jacksonville State University in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education degree. He served honorably as a 1st Lieutenant for The U.S. Army in Military Intelligence and saw combat in Vietnam from February 1969 to January 1971. He was awarded the Bronze Star in 1971 by the Army and the Cross of Gallantry by the government of the Republic of Vietnam. After his service overseas he returned home to complete his Master of Public Administration degree and Juris Doctor degree from The University of Alabama School of Law in 1975. While in attendance at The University of Alabama he was awarded the Dean’s Award April 5th, 1975. Don was a member of the John A. Campbell Moot Court Board, the Bench and Bar Legal Honor Society, and the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. He passed his bar exam in September 1975 and worked for the Alabama Attorney General’s office for one year. Don opened his law practice in Lanett, Alabama 1976 and ran it till his death in 2021.

Don Phillips was a devoted father and avid traveler. He enjoyed cruises and had traveled to over 60 countries. He enjoyed reading books about science and history. Don was a self-proclaimed generalist as he loved to learn about everything he could. His wide array of knowledge on varies subjects made him a brilliant problem solver for many of his loved ones, never turning down a difficult situation.

Don is survived by his wife, Joycee M. Phillips; his children Donald M. Phillips Jr., Hilary A. Phillips (Her children Lee and Porter), Cherith E. Phillips, and Corbin J. Phillips.

He is predeceased by his parents Cora O. Phillips, Alvin G. Phillips; sister Martha R. Pike, grandparents Warner M. Phillips, Alice M. Phillips, Lum Owens, Clara M. Owens.

“Never put off till tomorrow what may be done day after tomorrow just as well.” – Mark Twain

Services have been entrusted to Bluffton Funeral Services, Lanett, Alabama.

Services

Guest Book

Prayers and condolences are extended to Don's family. Don and I were classmates at the University of Alabama School of Law. I still remember Don's words of wisdom and his deep vibrant voice as we navigated our way through some tough classes and the demands of some even tougher professors. Don was an excellent student, friend and true gentleman. May he rest in eternal peace. Ron Sims

- Ron Sims

I spent a lot of time with Don at Valley High School, and both liked and greatly respected him. He was a really good man and I'm so sorry to learn of his death.

- David Morton

Don was my boss/friend for 18 years. His family is a part of my life and I am thankful for everything he has taught me and helped me with. We have gone through a lot of good times and bad times during our working years but I will always have wonderful memories. RIP my friend.

- Gina Herrington

Heartfelt condolences to his family.So sorry for your loss, many thoughts and prayers for you all at this most difficult time.

- Connie S Oliver

we had the honor to know Mr.Phillips he was such a good man and cared for so many people he will truly be missed 😢 💔.I am sorry for the families 😢 loss.God gained another Angel now

- Kathie Collier

My wife and I are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend Don! I had the pleasure of getting to know Don while we were both patients at Emory Hospital! He, and his wife, were a joy to get to know! Don had such an incredible personality! You just enjoyed being in his company! My heart is heavy knowing that we lost such a wonderful man, and a beautiful friend! There was a special bond between us! Rest my good friend! Tony and Michele Lupoli

- Anthony Lupoli

Rest in peace Don. Randy Duncan

- Randy Duncan

Don and I were students at Jacksonville State University in the late 60s. For a while, we shared a room at Logan Hall. Don was senior to me by a year, and I regularly sought his advice on a wide range of subjects. He was the smartest student in the entire dorm and probably the entire university. He was a good friend. A patriotic American. A man of impeccable integrity. A dignified and gentlemanly role model for all us freshman. Rest in peace Don. Jerry McAbee

- Jerry McAbee

I'm So sorry to hear about the passing of Mr.Don.He has always been there for me and my Family on Several occasions along with Mrs Gina.He was A very Nice and Trusting Man.Thank You Mr.Don you will be Missed.Prayers for the Family

- Linda Parrish