Paul Edward Phillips, 75, of Mt. Vernon, passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, at his home.
He was born January 7, 1942, in Mt. Vernon, the son of Lester and Wanda Jean (Isaac) Phillips.  On February 19, 1965, in Aurora, Illinois, he married Bunny Louise McKinney, and she survives in Mt. Vernon.
He graduated from Mt. Vernon Township High School and served in the United States Navy from 1960 until 1964, as a Helicopter Mechanic on the USS Yorktown, and then served two years in the Reserves.  He later retired as a Lineman for Illinois Power.  He was a member of the AMVETS, VFW, American Legion Post #141 of Mt. Vernon, and was a member of the Mt. Vernon Masonic Lodge #31 AF&AM, and the AINAD Shrine Temple in East St. Louis.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and panning for gold.
In addition to his wife,  Bunny Phillips of Mt. Vernon, Mr. Phillips is survived by three daughters, Pamela E. Phillips Duncan and special friend Tony G. Pierce of Mt. Vernon, Kristie L. Phillips Morgan and husband Paul A. of Mt. Vernon, and Zoey E.L. Duncan of Mt. Vernon;  six grandchildren, Anthony C. Duncan and wife Allison of California, Kristin E. Duncan Elllis and fiancée Tom Keeley of Walnut Hill,  Nicholas P. Duncan of Mt. Vernon, Sydney A. Morgan of Mt. Vernon, Reece P. Morgan of Mt. Vernon, and Lillian L. Morgan of Mt. Vernon;  five great-grandchildren;  three brothers, Loren Phillips of La Salle, Illinois, Gary Phillips of Rockford, Illinois, and Joe Phillips of Tennessee;  and two sisters, Linda Neighbors of Mt. Vernon and Carol Hargis of St. Louis.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Andy Phillips.
In accordance with the wishes of Mr. Phillips, a graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, September 16, 2017, at Union Chapel Cemetery, with Chaplain Ernie Collins officiating, and no visitation will be held.  Graveside Military Rites will be accorded by American Legion Post #141 of Mt. Vernon.  Memorial Gifts may be made to Wounded Warriors, and will be accepted at the service, or by mail to the Osborn Funeral Home, PO BOX 130, Dix, Illinois 62830.  Online condolences may be made at www.osbornfuneral.com, or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.