Obituary of Gary Phillips

Gary entered his new life on March 31, 2016 following a brief battle with cancer. Gary's wife, Jan, was at his side. His generous spirit, love of life and marvelous sense of humor will be greatly missed. Gary was born in Whittier, California, the youngest of six children. He graduated from Bellflower High in Bellflower, California in 1961. He pursued a career in the construction trades and became a member of the California Carpenter's Union. He was involved in building large commercial structures throughout California for many years. Gary and his former wife, Dixie, had two children, Carol Ann and Paul. His son Paul preceded him in death. After a move to Oklahoma in 1991, Gary met and married Jan Hundley in 1994. A few years later, they relocated to Tucson, Arizona. Gary set up shop on Bidahochi Drive where he became everyone's favorite neighbor. His many skills, love of people and their animals and fondness for storytelling quickly enamored him to those he met. Most of his friends and neighbors can point to at least one project he helped them to build or repair. He was also a regular at the dog park on the eastside with his buddy Rhettt (no, not misspelled). The two of them visited with folks and dogs nearly every day. Tigger, the cat, chose to live with Gary, Jan and Rhettt most of the time. Gary is survived by his wife of 21 years, Jan Phillips, his brother Gerald Phillips (Carolyn), his daughter, Carol Ann Zuck, step-daughter, Joslyn Culver (Jack), granddaughters Samantha and Vanessa Zuck, step-granddaughters Jordan and Maddie Yozwiak, and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to St. Jude's Hospital or the veteran's or cancer organization of your choice.