James W. Phillips Obituary (1924

James W. Phillips, 95 of Bloomington, passed away Wednesday, June 5, 2019 at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington. Jim's service will be held Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at 12:30pm at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington with Pastor Chad Sparks officiating. Following the service military honors will be conducted by the Bloomington/Normal American Legion Honor Guard. Burial will be held at the Mason City Cemetery, Mason City, IL at 3:30pm. Visitation will be held from 11:30am-12:30pm Wednesday at the funeral home. The family has suggested memorials be made to the Humane Society of Central Illinois or the charity of the donor's choice. Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home is in charge of arrangements. Jim was born May 12, 1924 in Center, Kentucky. He is the son of Vernon E. and Susie P. Judd Phillips. He married Henrietta I. Etherton on May 8, 1949 in Mason City, IL. He is survived by his wife, Henrietta ("Hank"); their children, Carol (Don) Munson, Bloomington; Randy Phillips, Normal; and Andrea (Ken) Kodis, Hometown, IL along with 5 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and assorted "grandpets." Jim is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Truman and Garvice, and his canine kid, Joey. Jim personified "The Greatest Generation." At 18, with his parents permission, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was wounded twice in combat while serving in the Pacific Theater during WWII. The Marines and war experience shaped and defined Jim's life. He returned home, married Henrietta, started a family and began a 30-year career at Caterpillar. Jim truly never met a stranger. He was funny, kind and unfailingly gracious and considerate. He loved and indulged his family, especially our dogs. Jim taught us all loyalty to family, friends, and the St. Louis Cardinals. Semper Fi our sweet Jim. Online condolences may be made to www.calvertmemorial.com