Edward William Phillips

New York native Ed Phillips, 98, passed away April 21, 2026, in Reevesville, SC surrounded by his loving family. He was born Edward William Phillips on August 16, 1927, in Ravena NY to William and Harriett (Pelton) Phillips. He met the love of his life, Billie (Violet Hicks Phillips), on his way to Sasebo Japan serving in WWII. Upon his return to California, they were married on July 11, 1946, in Las Vegas, NV in a small Methodist Chapel. They then traveled across the country to make their home in Coeymans Hollow, NY. Ed was employed for over 40 years by the Railroad in Selkirk NY retiring from Conrail as a Superintendent of the Auto Site. Upon retirement, they bought an RV and set off on an adventure that lasted over 15 years taking them into Mexico, Canada and the entire Continental United States. Ed was a member of numerous camping groups including The Dusty Travelers, 007 Canada, The Helderberg Hilltoppers and the Yankee Doodles. In addition to his love of travel, Ed was an excellent horseshoe pitcher belonging to numerous clubs mainly in Florida and has been published in numerous brochures due to his talent for throwing a "ringer". He was also a member of the Circle 8 Square Dance Club, the Coeymans Hollow Volunteer Fire Department and a 50-year member of The American Legion post #114 in Ravena NY. Ed is predeceased by his wife Billie, of 75 years, his son William F. Phillips, son-in-law William Ertel and many loved brothers and sisters. Ed leaves behind a loving and devoted family; daughters Dorothy Ertel of Coeymans Hollow, NY and Julia (Paul) Alix of Reevesville, SC. He was a loving Grampy to 7 Grandchildren: Donna (Jerry) Wickham, John (Michelle) Alix, Tracy (Jim) Clark, Tom Alix, Carrie Ertel, William Phillips and Sara Smith. He was also a loving Grampy to 11 Great-Grandchildren and 2 Great-Great-Grandchildren. Anyone who met Ed called him Grampy as he was a truly wonderful soul, quick to laugh and tell a story. The family would like to express their gratitude for the wonderful care, and love, shown by Family Hospice in Charleston SC. Their love and attention to our needs left nothing lacking or to be desired. They made a very difficult time bearable and helped fulfill Ed's wishes to remain in his home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the memory of Edward Phillips to Capital City Rescue Mission 259 S. Pearl Street Albany, NY 12202.