Willard A. Phillips Sr. passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, with his loving daughter by his side.

Willard proudly served in the United States Navy for nearly four years. He worked for many years at Albemarle Corporation in Orangeburg, South Carolina, retiring in 2005. He enjoyed staying busy around the house, fishing, and watching Gamecock football and baseball. He especially loved being surrounded by family and friends. A devoted husband for over 43 years, Willard deeply loved his family. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a very special place in his heart. He was known for his quiet, sweet spirit and wonderful sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his father, George H. Phillips, and his mother, Dorothy Gregory Phillips.

Willard is survived by his loving wife, Linda Phillips; daughter, Julie Jordan (Michael); sons, Will A. Phillips Jr. (Patricia) and David P. Phillips (Meredith); stepsons, Tarrell Barbare (Stephanie) and Tim Barbare (Chip); brothers, G.H. Phillips and Greg Phillips; sisters, Camilla Myers and Vonnie Jackson; 10 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be David Phillips, Tarrell Barbare, Christopher Stillinger, Erik Stillinger, Matthew Uriah Stillinger, and Jason Barbare.

Honorary pallbearers will be Kullen Stillinger, Nathan Phillips, and Blake Stillinger.

The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Hospice, the VA, and all the caregivers and workers who helped care for Willard during this time.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, located at 1012 Whitman Street SE, Orangeburg, South Carolina.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at First Southern Methodist Church, located at 2456 Broughton Street, Orangeburg, South Carolina 29115. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, located at 2720 Broughton Street, Orangeburg, South Carolina 29115.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Information regarding where flowers may be sent can be obtained through Thompson Funeral Home.