Virgil Phillips

Virgil F. Phillips 1905-2007. Beloved husband of Leona "Tommie" Phillips, his wife of 72 years, treasured uncle of Carolyn Wills, Diane Bailey, and Cynthia Weaver, and numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews, and loved brother-in-law of Garner Phillips died at 7:52 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16, 2007 in St John's Hospital, Springfield, Missouri.

Virgil was born in Springfield, MO on December 23, 1905 to Eva Jane & Fred Phillips. His siblings, who preceded him in death, were Eunice Nesci, Carl Phillips, and Mark Phillips.

Virgil's first love was the trumpet of which he was self-taught. The trumpet took him around the country playing for theaters, jazz clubs, speak-easys, wild west shows, and dances. He also played taps for many military funerals during WWII. He served as secretary of the musicians union, #150, Springfield area, and was proud of his 50 years perfect attendance at union meetings.

Tiring of the musicians' life on the road, Virgil married Tommie Thomas and finally settled in Springfield where he was musical director for KWTO radio in the 1930's-40's. He was also a part of the "Korn's A Krackin'" radio show which was perfect for his hillbilly humor and quick puns. He was a production assistant working with the musicians at the Ozark Jubilee where he met many famous musicians of the time including Red Foley, Porter Wagoner, Brenda Lee, and Tex Ritter.

About this same time, Virgil felt a calling to the Lord. He led prayer groups, Bible Study and preached at small churches throughout the Ozarks. He also wrote many religious tracts through his life that he printed and distributed.

In 1948 Virgil gave up the music and radio business to work at Phillips Engraving Company - a photo engraving business. He worked there in harmony with his brothers and many family members until he retired in 1981. Virgil was a remarkable man who will also be remembered for his humor that could make you laugh hilariously, his innovative pranks, his commitment to physical fitness, his amazing (and award winning) handwriting, his mandolin playing, and his Cardinals baseball caps. A word of advice from Virgil: "Beware of playing off key, blow in tune with the written word." Virgil, you were loved and will be sorely missed.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 19, 2007 in Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home 500 E. Walnut St. with the Rev. Dr. Eddie Hennig officiating. Burial will follow in Brighton Cemetery, Brighton, MO. Visitation will be from 12 noon until service time on Monday. Online condolences can be made at www.hhlohmeyer.com.