James Hal “Red” Phillips, 82 of Taylorville passed away at 5:00am on Monday, September 17, 2018 at Pana Community Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 24, 1935 in Broughton, Illinois, the son of Hal and Iva Lucille (Pyle) Phillips. He married Sue Ellen Millman on August 31, 1984 in Taylorville. James graduated from Eldorado High School and was a Union Boilermaker by trade. He was a member of the American Legion, attended the First United Methodist Church, and enjoyed being outside on his tractor. Red was a talented, life-long horseman, an interest that he shared with his wife Sue. James had an incredible love for his family, and cherished the time spent with them, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife: Sue Phillips of Taylorville; son: Russell Phillips (Carmen) of Paducah, Kentucky; step-children: Brent Morgan (Lori Trelz) of Taylorville and Danita Drake (Greg Miller) of Shelbyville; grandchildren: Max Phillips and Ashley Clark; step-grandchildren: Hunter Smith and Seth Morgan; great grandchildren: Draxton Aud, Owen Clark, and Davyn Aud; son-in-law: Robbie Crouse of Eldorado; brother: Edward Phillips (Bonnie) of McLeansboro; sister: Dana Gaines of Hominy, Oklahoma; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter: Vicki Crouse; siblings: Don Phillips (Juanita), Dena Ruth Phillips, Sara Jane Phillips, and Max Glenn Phillips.

A memorial service for James will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, September 20, 2018 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Barry Wright officiating. Visitation will be held from 10 until 11am Thursday at the funeral home. Inurnment will take place at Fraley Cemetery in Taylorville at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Red, or condolences to his family, may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.