February 6th, 1942 - September 29th, 2019
Gerald Dean Phillips left us to be with God Sunday, September 29, 2019 with his daughter by his side. He was born in Treat, Arkansas on February 6, 1942 to Robert and Ernestine Phillips. A little over a year later he and his family moved out to California in the Stockton/Linden area.
He was raised among four brothers, Ralph, Ray, Bob and twin brother Murel and sister, Mary Rose. All in which preceded him in death.
In 1962 he met his one true love, Betty Irwin. They were married in 1963 and were together for 55 years. Together they had two sons, Gerry and Chris and daughter, Tammy Lyn. He also had one grandson, Gerry Jr and great granddaughter, Layla. As well as numerous nieces and nephews. Plus several honorary grandchildren.
He started work at Canteen Vending Service in 1964 and remained there for 41 years. He began as a routeman, eventually working his way up to a maintenance man. He was extremely good at what he did. The endless supply of coffee may have been what kept him around so long. He loved his coffee!
Gerald enjoyed fishing with his wife, siblings and great friends. Many wonderful family fishing trips were simply on the river banks. But also out on the Delta where you could often find his brothers, sister and long time best friends. He had the time of his life on a fishing trip in Washington with his brothers Ray, Bob and Murel as well.
He also loved gardening. He would challenge himself to see what he could grow just from a mere seed.
Gerald viewed himself as a common man. But in truth he was so much more than that to so many who loved him. A faithful husband, devoted Father and loyal friend with a heart big enough for all. He was cherished and will be missed by many.
To quote him when he lost his beloved sister Mary Rose last year, “There were six little Indians and now there’s one.” Sadly now, there were six little Indians and now there’s none. Our beautiful husband and Father go be with God and reunite with your family once again.
Visitation
A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 5th, 2019 from 12:00p.m. noon to 5:00p.m. at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, located at 831 Industrial Way, Lodi CA, 95240.
Service
A service will be held on Monday, October 7th, 2019 at 1:00p.m. at Evergreen Chapel in Cherokee Memorial Park, located off of Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA, 95240.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Phillips family.
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