Anthony Dean Phillips, age 55, passed away in Smithville, Oklahoma, Saturday, February 26, 2022. He was born January 11, 1967, in De Queen, Arkansas to the late Melvin Edgel Phillips and Ramona Faith Phillips.
Anthony was optimistic, sarcastic, quick witted and loved life. He enjoyed spending time with family, fishing, reading and so much more.
Mr. Phillips was the former High School Principal at Smithville, his alma mater, where he was part of the 1985 Smithville Braves Basketball Team who won the Boys State Championship. He was the Oklahoma Player of the Year in 1985. He, along with his teammates, are still remembered for their great accomplishments over 37 years ago. They were led by Oklahoma Coaches Association Hall of Fame Inductee Coach, Jim Knapp. Mr. Phillips also received his Master’s degree in education.
For the past five years Anthony fought hard, battling Stage 4 Metastatic Colon Cancer. During this time, he was amazed by the outpouring of love and support from friends, family and the community.
Anthony’s goal in life was to make a difference, and we believe he did. Not only at home, but with his high school students\faculty and the community. He was a true warrior and an inspiration to many.
Mr. Phillips is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Jamie Phillips, of Smithville, Oklahoma; sons, Harmon and wife Danielle Phillips, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Joey Phillips of Pocola, Oklahoma; stepson, Andrew Jones; brothers, Johhny Phillips and wife Donna, of Smithville, Oklahoma, Tommy Phillips and wife Becky of Smithville; sister, Mona Medders and husband Scott of Talihina, Oklahoma; brother, Kerry Phillips and wife Judy of Whitesboro, Oklahoma, and brother, Joel Phillips and wife Christi, of Mountain View, Arkansas; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, friends, teammates, and colleagues.
Mr. Phillips was sent for cremation under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Memorial services for Mr. Phillips will be held Wednesday, March 2, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at the Octavia Baptist Church with Brother Ed Rogers officiating. Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
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