Gary Allan Phillips

Gary Allan Phillips was born in Caruthersville, Missouri, on May 27, 1946. He was the son of Harmen Phillips and Zerta Fowler Phillips.

He departed this life on December 15, 2025, in Dyersburg, Tennessee. He was 79 years old.

Gary proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He worked in the 318 Combat Support Group as a mechanic. After his honorable discharge, he transferred to the Air Force Reserve. He continued to work on fighter jets as a mechanic. He then trained and began working for NASA on many of the Apollo Space Flights.

On October 7, 1999, in Caruthersville, Missouri, he was united in marriage to Barbara Skaggs.

Gary loved the outdoors. He enjoyed camping with his grandchildren and was famous for telling the very best ghost stories. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. If he wasn't outdoors, you would find him with his buddies playing cards and enjoying a cold beer.

He is survived by his wife: Barbara Phillips; one daughter: Mya Skaggs; two stepchildren: Laura Shaw & Scott Holifield; two sisters: Peggy Barnes & Barbara Pullam; 10 grandchildren; and a number of great grandchildren and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters and a stepdaughter - Amy Holifield.

Graveside services with military honors will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Maple Cemetery in Caruthersville, Missouri. 

H.S. Smith Funeral Home in charge of services. 

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