Obituary of Ray Phillips

Ray “Coach” Phillips, long time resident of Coweta, OK, peacefully stepped into his heavenly home on January 29, 2009 at the age of 86. He was born June 25, 1922 in Coweta, OK. He married the love of his life, Alma Lea Nichols, on January 4, 1946 and “the games began and have been going on ever since,” over 63 years! Ray was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. He is survived by his wife, Alma Lea, two sons and their wives, Rick & Lana Phillips of Porter and Mike & Carol Phillips of Coweta. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Ben & Kim Phillips, Kelly & Dena Phillips, Nick Phillips, Marc Phillips, Kylee Phillips, Micah Phillips, and two great-granddaughters, Kylie & Shelby Phillips. Ray served his country during World War II in the United States Army from September 4, 1940 to June 23, 1945, having been decorated with numerous medals. He graduated from Coweta High School. Ray then attended Northeastern State University, where he received his Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree in Education. Ray always put the well being of his family ahead of his own. He taught his family the meaning of honesty and integrity by the way he lived his life and was kind beyond measure. He had a great sense of humor and was always one step ahead of you as he was well known for pulling “jokes” and “pranks” on those he was around. You couldn’t be around our dad and leave without having more love in your heart and a smile on your face. Ray was a teacher and a coach at Coweta High School for 19 years and at Muskogee High School for 21 years. He attained one of the most successful coaching careers in the State of Oklahoma. His desire for those he taught and coached was that he would in some way have a positive influence on their lives. Although “tough” as a bear on the outside, he was “soft” as a kitten on the inside, always concerned for each and every student and athlete he came in contact with over the years. Ray “Coach” Phillips will be laid to rest at a graveside service at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, February 2, 2009 at the Fort Gibson National Cemetery in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma with full military honors. Pastor Robert Shaw and Pastor D. Frank Hughes will officiate the service. Family and friends may view the obituary and send condolences to Ray Phillips family online @ www.wrightfh.net. The family of Ray Phillips entrusted his care and services to Wright Funeral Home, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, Ok. 74429 (918)486-5515.