Ellis Grey Phillips, 83, of Buena Vista, died Tuesday, May 15, 2007. He was born April 25, 1924 in Clarke County, Ala., a son of the late Grover Phillips and Effie Rush Phillips. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Annie Mae Newton, Virgie Newton, and Joyce Dickens. Ellis was a World War II veteran of the US Army. He served with the 4th Infantry Division. He was in the D-Day invasion of Normandy, receiving five battle stars, bronze star medal and a presidential citation in honor of his brave service to his country. He retired from Burlington Industries after 34 years of service. He was a member of the VFW, the American Legion and the 4th Infantry (Ivy) Division Assoc. He is survived by his wife, Wyma D. Phillips; children, Ellis G. Phillips, Buena Vista, James R. and Carolyn Driscoll, Staunton, Barbara Brown and husband, Donald, Lithia, Sharon Tomlinson and husband, Jack, Stuarts Draft, Terri Wilmer and husband, Ray, Buena Vista, Carolyn Harrison and husband, Timmy, Lexington; numerous grandchildren and greatgrandchildren; sister, Mattie Lee Pugh, Alabama; brothers, Noah Phillips and wife, Ina, Fairfield, Melvin G. Phillips, Alabama, James Phillips and wife, Margaret, Buena Vista, Calvin L. Phillips and wife, Doris, Raphine; and numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 17, 2007 at Bolling Grose & Lotts Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Flowers are appreciated, but if you choose to make a donation in his honor, please consider your local A zheimer's Association (888-809-7383). Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, May 18, 2007 at Bolling Grose & Lotts Chapel with the Rev. Sheldon Sorrels officiating. Burial will follow in Green Hill Cemetery. Arrangements by Bolling Grose & Lotts Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Buena Vista, Va.
Published in the Roanoke Times from 5/16/2007 - 5/17/2007.