James R. Phillips, 85, of Charlotte, NC, passed away on Friday, April 29, 2026, at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte, NC.

Mr. James Rufus Phillips was born on October 9, 1940, in Charlotte, North Carolina. “Bill,” as he was affectionately called by his family and friends, was the son of Augustus and Ruth Alexander Phillips.

At an early age, he joined Tabernacle Baptist Church. Bill graduated from West Carlotte Senior High School where he excelled in its culinary arts class. From this class, he developed a love for cooking.

On April 29, 2026, Bill answered his Father’s calling and peacefully joined his parents, two sisters, and two brothers in his Heavenly Father’s house.

Bill was employed by a job which quickly became a second family to him; Pritchard Memorial Baptist Church in Charlotte was this family. He loved his interactions with the members, especially the children in day care, adult day care, and the kitchen staff. He loved it so much, he was there for over sixty (60) years.

To him, his greatest achievement was to be of service to others. Bill never failed to visit and assist elderly members of the Washington Heights Community where he was raised.

Bill’s motto was to “Be Kind and Do Good For Others.” He assisted with the care of his older brother John, a disabled veteran.

He was the link to our Kerns-Alexander Family in Statesville, NC, especially close to Cousin Sanford and wife, Virginia Lazenby, who mentored him in the knowledge of herbal medicine and garden skills. Bill’s favorite saying was “whatever the rabbits eat, you can eat.” He shared his bounty with family and friends, even the eggs his hens produced. Bill will be missed for his wit and humor; as well as his “mini sermons” on facing life’s challenges with common sense.

James R. Phillips was predeceased by his parents; sisters, Mary Louise Phillips Lyles and Doris Phillips Simmons; brothers, Leroy Phillips and Nathaniel E. Phillips; as well as his beloved uncle and aunt, James and Johnsie McLilly.

Memories of Bill will be cherished by sister, Diane Phillips Bailey (Charles); brothers, John A. Phillips and Edward Phillips; sister-in-law, Betty Phillips; special cousins, Harold Mackey (Lisa), Virginia Lazenby and Janice Gaston; along with a host of other relatives and friends.

REST IN ETERNAL PEACE, BILL!