James Allen Phillips, 89, of Warner Robins, Georgia, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

Born on September 19, 1937, in Thomaston, Georgia, James was the son of the late Gus L. Phillips and Henyard Crawford Phillips. He grew up in Warner Robins and attended Warner Robins High School.

James proudly served his country for 22 years in the United States Navy, retiring with the rank of Petty Officer First Class. As a Navy Corpsman, he completed four tours of duty in Vietnam and was awarded two Purple Hearts for wounds received during combat operations while attached to Marine units. His love for the Navy never faded, and he carried that pride with him throughout his life. Rarely seen without a Navy shirt or hat, James wore his service proudly, making sure everyone knew how much being a sailor meant to him. The Navy was more than a career to James; it was a lifelong source of pride and an important part of who he was.

Following his military career, James continued his years of public service with Houston County Government, where he later retired.

James was a member of First United Methodist Church of Warner Robins, where he faithfully served through the church’s food pantry ministry. Helping others was important to him, and he generously gave his time to those in need.

A talented woodturner, James was well known for his beautiful handcrafted wooden bowls, ink pens, and Lazy Susans. His woodworking was more than a hobby; it was a way for him to share his creativity and talent with others. The pieces he lovingly created will remain treasured keepsakes for family and friends.

Those who knew James knew he had a stubborn streak, but they also knew he had a wonderful sense of humor. He always had a funny little joke or song ready for his children and grandchildren, bringing laughter and smiles to those around him. Those silly songs, familiar jokes, and special moments will forever be part of the memories his family holds dear. During the last year of his life, James and Joyce were blessed to live alongside Sydni Gilbert and Sabrina Turner, who lovingly helped care for them both. James embraced Sabrina as another granddaughter.

Above all, James was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He shared 57 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Joyce A. Phillips. Together, they built a life filled with family, love, and memories that will continue to be cherished for generations.

James is survived by his loving wife, Joyce A. Phillips; his children, Marjorie Phillips of San Diego, California, Sharon Mitchell of Byron, Georgia, Rik Phillips (Beverly) of Pensacola, Florida, and Heather Winborn (Tony) of Warner Robins, Georgia; and his grandchildren, Brandon Malawong, Ryan Bohannon, Christina Phillips, Katrina Phillips, and Sydni Gilbert. He is also survived by his brother, Arthur Phillips, and sister, Pauline Rinkus.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Phillips, and his son-in-law, Johnny Mitchell.

James leaves behind a legacy of courage, service, faith, and love. He will be remembered not only for the sacrifices he made for his country and the kindness he showed his community, but also for the laughter he brought to his family and the countless memories that will live on in their hearts.

A memorial service celebrating James’s life will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church of Warner Robins, located at 205 N. Davis Drive, Warner Robins, Georgia. The family will receive friends for visitation at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m., prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to First United Methodist Church of Warner Robins in James’s memory.

McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.