Donald “Don” Ray Phillips, 76, of Sherman, IL, passed away on Monday, July 28, 2025, at his home. Don was born in St. Louis, MO on April 1, 1949, to Teddie Marie Reynolds Phillips and George Ray Phillips. He was preceded in death by his parents; a stepfather, Walter S. Osgood of Galesburg, IL; an older brother, George Edward “Ed” Phillips; and a nephew, also of Galesburg. Don’s maternal grandparents, Ed H. and Maude Reynolds of McKenzie, TN also preceded him in death.
Don grew up in Galesburg, IL and graduated from Galesburg High School in 1967. Soon after high school, Don enlisted in the Illinois National Guard and served six years as a Guardsman. Don was a draftsman for Lawn Boy Corp. in Galesburg for several years. He was skilled at drawing architectural drawings for work and for his remodeling jobs.
Don married Joy Allen in Galesburg, and they raised two sons together. John C. Phillips of Charlotte, IA and Andy L. Phillips of Cedar Rapids, IA survive their father. A nephew, Mike Phillips (Tammy) of Wataga, IL also survives.
In 2001, Don married Carol A. Ruebner Phillips in Sheffield, IL. She survives her husband. A stepdaughter, Gretchen E. (Chris) Reubner Healy of Barrington, RI, and son, Tristan, also survive.
Don was a Galesburg Firefighter for over 25 years. Don really appreciated the bond he had with his fellow fire fighters during his career. On days off from the station, Don ran a very successful home remodeling business. He also developed and ran a private business, Backyard Rails, building custom large-scale railroads and locomotives.
Don was a very talented artist and modeler of small-scale railroad layouts as well. When the weather was nice, Don enjoyed driving his 1938 Pontiac or his 1968 Chevelle.
Visitation: 9:30 am – 11:00 am, Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at Staab Funeral Home – Sherman.
Funeral Service: 11:00 am, Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at Staab Funeral Home – Sherman with Pastor Thomas Ek and Chaplain Scott Nichols officiating. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery, Illiopolis, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to your local Salvation Army, Animal Protective League, Central IL Food Bank, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or the American Red Cross.
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