George Robert Phillips, Jr.

George Robert Phillips, Jr., 61 yrs young, joined his heavenly family on Saturday, November 30, 2024, after a courageous 2+ year fight against pancreatic cancer. George was born in Detroit, MI and moved to Ft. Lauderdale, FL as a young boy. An avid Detroit Lions and Michigan Wolverines fan, George loved watching his teams play and will forever be a Barry Sanders man.

George is survived by his wife of 42 years, Tracey; his cherished daughters and sons-in-law, Lacey D. and William (Joe) Matkins, Casey M. and Bruce R. Gillingham, and Amy M. Phillips. George is survived by his grandchildren, who filled his heart with overwhelming joy and pride, William Jr., Nikolus, Emaleigh, Robert, Maddox, Elijah, and Oliver. He is also survived by his younger brother Ron and niece Nina; nephews Jason, Derek, and niece Tara. George is also survived by many beloved cousins up north, who gave him incredible memories and laughter that lasted a lifetime.

George was proud to serve his country in the US Navy and proud that his children also served and currently serve their country and the State of Florida. His patriotism and love of the Navy prompted other family members to serve as well. George retired from UF Shands as a respiratory therapist.

George is preceded in death by his parents George Sr. and Alice, and his older brother Terry. George is also preceded in death by his best friend Fred Barton, who had a campfire waiting.

George’s wishes did not include a typical funeral service; his ashes will make their way to Cherokee, NC, where he created wonderful memories with his family and the Barton bunch. There, a gathering of family and friends will celebrate his life listening to the sounds of Detroit native Bob Seger and other classic 80’s rock around the campfire.

True to his name, George was a man who found peace and joy in tending to the land, nurturing it with the same care and love he showed to those around him. In honor of his memory, a private memorial garden will be created, a place where his spirit can continue to grow and flourish in those that love him. For those who wish to contribute in lieu of flowers, we invite you to do so here: Honoring George https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-george-help-tracey-in-this-time-of-loss. Your loving gifts will help establish the heart of this garden—a graceful willow tree, symbolizing strength and resilience, and a granite memorial bench, engraved with a message of love that will forever provide comfort and peace. The memory of George will forever endure, rooted in the land he cherished.