Fayette resident, Ed Phillips, 73, passed away peacefully at his home on February 22, 2023, following a battle with cancer.

Edward Lynn Phillips was born December 4, 1949, in Kansas City, Missouri. He was one of two sons born to the late Morris L. and Mary E. (Williams) Phillips. Ed attended and graduated high school in Kansas City. Following high school Ed enlisted with the U.S. Navy and served his country for six years during the Vietnam War era. While in the Navy, Ed specialized in the nuclear submarine program. After he was honorably discharged, Ed went back to school and furthered his education, earning a bachelor’s degree from Central Methodist University.  

On May 7, 1988, Ed married Patricia Daniels at Linn Memorial United Methodist Church in Fayette. Ed and Pat have enjoyed over 34 years of marriage together. Ed started his working career as part owner/operator of the Village Place in Fayette. He eventually became sole proprietor, and operated the Village Place for numerous years. In his later years he enjoyed working at the new ACE Hardware store.

Survivors include his wife of the home, Pat Phillips; daughter, Rachel Phillips of Fayette; and his brother, Cecil (Carol) Phillips of Atlanta, Georgia; aunts, Cecile Young of Fayette and Sue McNabb of Boonville; and brothers-in-law, Bill (Lanie) Daniels and Mike (Linda) Daniels. Ed is also survived by special friends, Morgan (Liz) Forderhase, Rob (Nan) Young, Steve (Julie) Koirtyohann and John Howell.

A celebration of life, honoring Ed Phillips, will be held privately and at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Howard County Library Association. Final arrangements are under the direction of Friemonth-Freese Funeral Service, 174 Hwy. 5 & 240 N., Fayette, MO 65248.