John Ernest Phillips was born on a farm near Italy, Texas on April 10, 1939, died on March 20, 2009 in Dallas, Texas. John moved to Levelland, Texas as a boy, with his parents and older brother.

He graduated from Hardin Simmons University, Baylor University School of Law, SMU Law School (Masters of Law), and TCU Ranch Management. He was commissioned First Lieutenant in the United States Army, earned an Army Commendation Medal, and served three and a half years active duty.

He retired as a senior partner in Strasburger and Price, LLP in Dallas, Texas, after 33 years, in December 2001. He was a trial lawyer, trying numerous cases, and head of the General Litigation Division at the law firm for ten years. He also served as President of the Dallas Association of Defense Lawyers.

After retiring, he continued to raise Aberdeen Angus cattle for eight years in Italy, Texas. John served as a Deacon in the Central Baptist Church of Italy, Texas, and at Park Cities Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas. He was also a member of the Bob and Ruth Glaze Sunday School Class at PCBC for more than 23 years.

John is survived by his wife of forty-eight and a half years, Barbara, the love of his life, his son John Edd and daughter-in-law Lisa, his daughter Jan, and his grandson Walter. He is also survived by his mother, Ernestine Phillips of Frisco, brother Joe Don Phillips of Levelland, and sister Tina Swenson of Plano.

With courage, he bravely fought against uveal melanoma since 2005. As a privilege, he has chosen to donate his prosthetic eye to a military soldier.

In remembrance of his great life, he will have a visitation at the Central Baptist Church of Italy, Texas on Sunday, March 22, 2009 from 5-7 pm, and a memorial service at Park Cities Baptist Church at 3933 Northwest Parkway in Dallas, Texas on Monday, March 23, 2009 at 11 am. He will be laid to rest by his immediate family at the DFW National Cemetery, with military honors.

To view an online obituary or leave the family a personal tribute, please visit www.bozemitchellmckibbin.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Boze-Mitchell-McKibbin Funeral Home in Waxahachie. (972)937-2211