Frank Phillips, Jr.

Frank Phillips, Jr., affectionately known as "Sonny", graced the world with his presence on February 10, 1940, in Bessemer, Alabama. He was the beloved son of the late Mr. Frank Phillips, Sr. and Carrie T. Phillips. From the moment he was born, his curly hair and radiant smile brought boundless joy to the life of his parents.

Frank embraced his faith early on, confessing Christ as his Lord and Savior at Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church. His spiritual journey led him to become a founding member of Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where he served with unwavering dedication on the Deacon Board and as the Financial Secretary.

Frank's heart found its match in Barbara Hardie, his college sweetheart. Their union was blessed with two beautiful daughters, Cassandra Yvette and Ellen Arreia, who brought immense pride and happiness to their lives.

As a proud alumnus of Westfield High School, Class of 1958, Frank was celebrated as a "Mighty, Mighty Wildcat." His sense of duty and patriotism led him to enlist in the United States Army, where he completed basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. During his service, he earned the distinguished rank of Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, a notable achievement for soldiers of color during that era.

After his honorable military service, Frank pursued higher education at Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical College (now Alabama A&M University) and Booker T. Washington Business College, earning degrees in business and bookkeeping. His professional journey included significant roles at American Cast Iron and Pipe Company (ACIPCO), CAPCO, Jones Valley Nursing Home and Woodard Iron Company. Even in retirement, his dedication to work led him to reenter the workforce as a security guard.

Frank's zest for life extended beyond his professional achievements. He had a deep love for motorcycles, owning several bikes and relishing rides with his best friend, Quitman Mitchell. As a proud member of the RamRods Motorcycle Club, he found camaraderie and joy. Frank had a generous heart for his family and friends. He found joy in farming, raising hogs, and sharing the meat with everyone in the community. Frank hosted neighborhood gatherings, creating a safe and welcoming environment for his friends and family to enjoy. Frank's love for baseball was nurtured by his Uncle Jobie Thomas, who coached him. He served as a mentor to the youth in his community and church, inspiring them with tales of his experiences as a paratrooper and his passion for farming.

Always impeccably dressed, he was also a proud and stylish member of the Standard Social and Savings Club. Frank's biggest joy came from family vacations with his grandchildren.

Frank was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Phillips; his parents; his brother, Joe Hambrite and his grandson, Tazman Phillips.

His legacy lives on through his daughters, Cassandra and Ellen Phillips of Birmingham, AL; grandsons, Taurian Phillips and Tavarez Phillips, both of Pell City, AL; granddaughters, Fredericka Phillips of Ensley, AL, and T'Carrie Phillips of Pell City, AL; great grandson, Kylin Hall; nephew, Lil' Hambrite; special cousin, Cassandra King; and a host of other relatives and friends who cherished his memory.

Frank's life was a testament to love, service, and commitment. His enduring spirit and the impact he made on his family and community will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.