William Lee Phillips

William Lee Phillips, lovingly known as "Uncle Phil," age 74 passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026, at Pocola Nursing Home in Pocola, Oklahoma. He was born on March 13, 1952, in Spiro, Oklahoma to his parents Ruth Mae (Lewis) Phillips and Tom Phillips Jr.

William loved the Lord. He proudly served in the United States Army for 15 years demonstrating dedication, strength and a deep sense of duty to his country. After his military service he continued to have a joyous life rooted in faith and service. He served as a deacon for many years and offered guidance and compassion while supporting his church community.

Outside of his work and ministry, William found great joy in listening to music, reading his bible, fishing and spending peaceful moments outdoors. Although a proud and committed soldier, he valued his family more. His nieces and nephew gave him the nickname "Uncle Phil." They enjoyed spending quality time with him. "Uncle Phil" was popular amongst all of his niblings. He was "the cool uncle." In fact, in his early days he looked forward to spending time with them, his children, his friends and family. As a young father he enjoyed taking his children to visit their uncles and aunts while spending quality time with his siblings. William had a passion for the simple things in life early, The Ladies. He enjoyed socializing, cooking and hanging out at Momma Ruthie and Grandpa Tommy's house. He also enjoyed traveling. His time in the military had given him the opportunity to visit many cities, states and countries. But it was Fort Coffee, Oklahoma that he decided to come back to where he lived with his wife and son. It was the peace he found in country living. In his final days he exhibited tranquility, gratitude and acceptance. He was a very strong man, a fighter, charming, gregarious and charismatic. He had an immense love for his friends and family. He will be missed dearly. William had an unwavering love for his Father God Almighty. He knew Jesus was the answer to eternal salvation.

William leaves to cherish his memory of his five loving children; Shaquendolyn C. Crawford and spouse Antwione Crawford of Fayetteville, Arkansas; Vincent L. Cravens and spouse Carla Cravens of Van Buren, Arkansas; Duawn C. Phillips and his lifetime partner, of Fayetteville, Arkansas; Shameka J. Phillips of Edmond, Oklahoma; and Jeremiah William Lee Phillips and Jess Ware of Muldrow, Oklahoma; two stepchildren, Kayla Allen of Germany; and Skyla Brammer of Pocola, Oklahoma; twelve grandchildren: Tre, Ashlyn, Jaida B, Shakira, Jordan, Anika, Vivianna, Kayleigh, Myles, Maliyah, Miya, and Maddox; two great grandchildren: Leilani and Cleo. He is also survived by his sister, Tommye (Tina) L. Grant and spouse Terry Grant of Fort Smith, Arkansas, his twin Brother, Willie L. Phillips and spouse Angie Phillips of Fort Coffee, Oklahoma.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Cynthia Phillips; his parents, Ruth Mae (Lewis) Phillips and Tom Phillips, Jr.; as well as seventeen siblings.

There will be a Memorial service on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the House of Restoration Church.  There will be a Celebration of Life held the following day, Friday, May 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. also at the House of Restoration Church with Pastor, Tashala Devrow to officiate.

William's children would like to give special thanks to their Aunt Tina, Uncle Terry, Uncle Willie and Aunt Angie for loyalty to our dad. We appreciate your time, encouragement, food, haircuts and above all, your presence. Our appreciation extends further to all of our family and friends that called, visited and prayed for him. Thank you to Lewis Funeral Chapel for their professional services, our cousin Pastor Tashayla Devrow and the House of Restoration Church.
 

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