Paul "Smitty" Smith Phillips

Paul Smith Phillips, “Smitty”, 78, of McDonough, Georgia, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025. Born on August 4, 1947, in Atlanta, he was the beloved son of the late Paul Aaron and Julia Smith Phillips.

Smitty grew up in Palmetto, Georgia, before moving to McDonough, where he graduated from Henry County High in 1965. A proud Warhawk, he played second base on the school’s baseball team and carried a lifelong love for the game—especially the Braves.

After high school, Smitty attended the University of Georgia, earning a bachelor’s degree in agriculture. During his time at UGA, he was a proud member of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, where he made friendships that lasted a lifetime and earned the nickname Rooster.

Following his college graduation, Smitty answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army. He served from 1970 to 1972. Upon returning home, he married in 1973 and soon began building a family and a business that reflected his strong work ethic and caring spirit.

Smitty founded Dynamic Plumbing in McDonough, which he owned and operated for many years. His honesty, skill, and kindness earned him the trust and respect of countless customers and friends throughout the community. A true jack of all trades, he loved woodworking, turning beautiful bowls, and even built his own lathe.

Beyond his craftsmanship, Smitty was an amateur philosopher and avid reader who loved exploring ideas and reflecting on life. A quiet man of great compassion, he believed deeply in helping others. His generosity and gentle nature touched everyone he met. He was a philanthropist at heart, a pacifist in spirit, and a friend to all. Though a man of few words, Smitty’s actions spoke volumes—of kindness, patience, and love.

Smitty will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, brother, friend, and craftsman—a man whose steady presence and big heart made the world a better place.

His memory will forever be treasured by his children Kalli Phillips (Kathleen Mitchell) of Eugene, Oregon, Paul Alexander Phillips of Warner Robins, Georgia, Josie Spain (Joey) of Alpharetta, Georgia, and Hope Williams (Thomas) of Kathleen, Georgia; grandchildren, Georgia Williams, Caroline Spain, Smith Spain, Eli Williams, Tucker Spain and Henry Spain; sisters, Julianna Ellington, Melissa Hensel and Alice McKoy; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial gathering will be held on November 24, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of Smitty Phillips to the American Civil Liberties Union by visiting https://action.aclu.org/give .

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.