James William Phillips, life long resident of Mount Clemens, died on December 20th. Jim, as he liked to be called, was a hardworking, dedicated, caring person. He touched many lives in his 75 years.

Best known, as Mr. Phillips the custodian at Wilson Elementary. During his working years and in retirement he enjoyed collecting anything and everything from the side of the road to give it a second, third, or fourth life.

His favorite quote to his four children and anyone else who would listen was, "You can do anything you put your mind too" and, although he would never admit it, he lived his life to this quote. Jim also enjoyed drawing pictures, painting, and helping others. He was a dedicated volunteer for many charities including St. Vincent de Paul, St. Peter's Catholic Church, and MCREST.

James is survived by his wife, of 51 years, Virginia (Lozen) Phillips; and his four children Gail (Matthew) Motloch, Karen (Wilder) Turner, Brian (Kelly O'Connor) Phillips, and Lawrence (Christina) Phillips; his siblings Theresa (William) Hoeksma, Sharon McCarty, and Thomas (Net) Phillips. He will be missed by his eleven grandchildren. ?
The visitation for James will be held at the Will & Schwarzkoff Funeral Home, 233 Northbound Gratiot, Mt. Clemens, Michigan 48043, on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 from 3:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. with a scripture service at 7:00 P.M.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at 9:30 A.M. (in state at 9:00 A.M.) at St. Peter Catholic Church, 95 Market Street, Mount Clemens, Michigan 48043.