William L. Phillips, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully passed away at his home July 25, 2026, at the age of 86. Born October 9,1939, in Georgiana, Alabama, William lived a life defined by family, hard work and love for the outdoors.

William was the beloved husband of Sue J. Phillips, whom he married March 17,1959 sharing 68 years together. Since her stroke in 2018, William served as her number one caretaker committed to doing all he could to make her life the fullest it could be. He was a devoted father to his daughter, Deanna Stinson, and her husband Roger. William was proud of his granddaughter - Haley and her three children, his great-grandchildren - Kennedy, Kade, and Kamden. He is also survived by his sister - Mary Alice Phillips Greene, and numerous nieces and nephews. William is predeceased by his parents - James Jasper Phillips and Ollie Belle Black Phillips Majors, his sisters - Frances Louise Phillips Skinner and Betty Mae Phillips Hooper, his brothers - James Jasper Phillips, Jr., Charlie Phillips, and Monroe Phillips, his son - Bruce, and grandson - Tyler, whom he held dear in his heart.

A 1958 alumnus of Georgiana High School, William was well known in his community as the man who could repair, build, drive, run, basically do anything with his hands in his expert way. He was always working on some new project but never too busy to stop and help a friend. He worked in many capacities including owning and managing several businesses and serving as a County Commissioner for Butler County. William operated his own sawmill which he used to cut lumber for people from all around. He loved to read Westerns and was rarely seen without a cup of coffee.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 1,2026, at 11:00 A.M., with visitation one hour prior at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church. Brother Danny Dean will officiate, and Johnson Funeral Home will direct. Burial will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Serving as pall bearers will be: Steve Bozeman, Dylan Jones, Mick Jones, Mika Jones, Tony Jones, and Richard Skinner.

Flowers will be accepted as well as donations made to the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery Association.