Mr. William J. Phillips, age 86, of Carrollton, Georgia, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, July 8, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Born on March 12, 1940, in Middletown, Ohio, William was the son of the late George and Vivian Phillips. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, carrying the values of honor, dedication, and hard work with him throughout his life.

Following his military service, William built a career in maintenance with Armco Steel, where he worked faithfully until his retirement. He was a man who enjoyed the simple things in life, good music, and time spent with the people he loved.

For many years, he shared his life with his beloved wife, Christine Back Phillips, whose memory he carried with him after her passing. Together, they built a family that became the greatest source of pride in their lives.

He is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, William R. & Mary K. Phillips and Michael L. Phillips & Latishia Merchant; his brother, Jerry Phillips; his grandchildren, William R. Phillips, Jr., Johnathan David Phillips, Kristin Williams, and Jacob Nathanael Phillips; and his great-grandchildren, Phoenix Phillips, Riley Williams, Evryn Williams, and Annabeth Williams. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will cherish his memory.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Bob Phillips, Jack Phillips, Mike Phillips, David Phillips, and Jimmy Phillips; and his sister, Joyce Smith.

A funeral service celebrating William's life will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Martin & Hightower Funeral Home with Rev. John Powers officiating. Interment will follow at Carrollton City Cemetery with Shane Blair, Chase Merchant, Austin Williams, Ronnie Phillips, Jonathan Phillips, and Curtis Blair III serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 12:00 noon until the service hour.

Martin & Hightower Funeral Home is honored to serve the Phillips family during this difficult time. Messages of condolence may be shared with the family at www.martin-hightower.com.