FORT MYERS, FL

Samuel “Sam” L. Phillips Jr., a businessman and beloved father, passed away May 14, 2020 at the age of 87.

Sam was born to Samuel and Cleaster Phillips on October 20, 1932 in Cairo, Illinois. The family moved to Seymour, Indiana, where Sam finished high school. He served in the army and was awarded a Purple Heart for his service in the Korean War.

As the second African American white collar worker at Cummins Inc., Sam was a trailblazer. He worked there for 30 years. After retiring, he founded Phillips Dillingham Incorporated with Tim Dillingham in Columbus, Indiana, where he lived for over 40 years. He sold the business and fully retired in 2006. The family is very proud of his business prowess and accomplishments.

Sam was an avid golfer and lover of warm weather. He started spending time in Florida in the late 80’s and moved to Fort Myers, Florida full-time in 2012. There, he was able to enjoy his hobbies of fine dining, gardening, and swimming.

Sam is preceded in death by his parents, his ex-wife Dorothy, sister Teenie Mae, and brothers Anthony Ray and LaVerne.

Sam is survived by daughter Valerie (Mitchell), son Vyran (Irene), sisters Idessia and Norma, brother Charlie, and grandchildren Paris, Samone and Vyran II.

As a veteran, Sam’s remains will go to Arlington National Cemetery. A private service was held for immediate family in Fort Myers. In lieu of sending flowers, feel free to send a donation to the TGR Foundation or the James R. Jordan Foundation.

A celebration of life will be planned at a later time, once the coronavirus pandemic is mitigated. Scotch, his favorite drink, will be served in Sam’s honor.