Obituary

James Clevester Phillips Sunrise 7/12/1944 Sunset 6/26/2024 James was born in Samson, Alabama on July 12, 1944 to Samuel (Buck) Phillips and Elizabeth Phillips. Although he was born and started his early life in Alabama, his father moved the family to New Jersey where he attended several schools such as Whittier and Camden High School. Following his schooling, James was enlisted in the United States Air Force where he was an Honorable Discharge.

During his journey, James made his way back to Alabama and eventually returned to New Jersey many years later. He then married twice and worked a variety of jobs including construction, The Garden State Race Track and was a member of the Union Local 222 until he retired. After retirement, James moved to Atlanta, Georgia, but returned back to New Jersey to be close to family.

James, better known as Jimmy and Cornbread, had several hobbies like fishing, hunting, billiards and of course those race horses. He also loved to cookout and appreciated being around his family and friends. If you knew James, you knew that he was a stylish dresser from head to toe and loved his Cadillacs. When he came to visit, which was early in the morning, he would greet you with his favorite saying, “What’s up Mealy-Mouthed?”

James is preceded in death by his parents: Samuel and Elizabeth Phillips, his sisters: Ruby “Grace” Sconiers (Daniel), Betty Phillips, Christine Degrange and Shirley Phillips. His brothers: Milon Phillips and Clarence Phillips. Those left to cherish his memories are his four children: Gerry Phillips Sr. (Wanda), Angela Johnson (Gerald), Kelly Bronson, and Donald Phillips. Three sisters: Louise Graham, Arlene Cunningham, and Viola Jones (Nathaniel) ~deceased. Eight grandchildren: Ashley, Eric, Gerry Jr., Tiffany (Joshua), Gerell, Gervon, Miracle, and Gerbria. Two great-grandchildren: Arness III, and Dakota. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.