John Berlie Phillips

John Berlie Phillips passed away peacefully on April 2, 2024, at the age of 97. Born on August 25, 1926, in Mounds, Arkansas, to Rudy and Norma Phillips.

In 1953, Berlie married the love of his life, Vera Wamble Phillips.  Together they raised four children, Kale, Greg, Kathy, and Kim.  Berlie and Vera were blessed with a 70 year marriage where they held true to their vows.  Vera passed away nine short days before Berlie. 

Berlie's early years were marked by a strong work ethic and a sense of duty, he was drafted into the Army at the age of 18. A World War II Army Veteran, he honorably served in the Philippine Islands in the spring of 1945 preparing to invade Japan.  After Japan’s surrender he was sent to Japan during occupation.  His bravery and service to his country were recognized with the awarding of a Bronze Star. Berlie's experience in the military was a defining chapter in his life, and he often reflected on those years and expressed his thanks to God for bringing him home safely.

After returning from the war, Berlie farmed and had his own dairy farm.    He began working for Kirk Brazil Construction when they were constructing L.A. Darling.  Once the factory opened, he began work at L.A. Darling until his retirement in 1993, where he not only dedicated himself to his work but also cultivated lifelong friendships. One of his favorite pastimes was playing softball with his coworkers after their shift.

Throughout his life, he always raised cattle, pigs, and chickens. His hands were rarely idle, tending to his vegetable and fruit garden with meticulous care. The joy he found in sharing his garden with family and friends was immeasurable. Berlie's generosity and love for his family and friends were as abundant as the harvests he produced.

A Godly man, Berlie was a devoted member of the Union Central Church of Christ. His commitment to his family, church, and his faith were unwavering, and he lived his beliefs through acts of kindness and service.

Berlie's legacy is one of quiet strength, resilience, and generosity. He was a man who found richness in the simplicity of life, the joy of giving, and the fulfillment of a hard day's work.
Berlie was preceded in death by his wife, Vera Phillips; parents, Rudy and Norma Phillips; siblings, Suvda Thomas, Vernon Phillips, Jay Phillips, and Herbert Phillips; and a great-grandson, Luke Kellums.

Survivors include his sons and daughters-in-law, Kale and Melissa Phillips, Greg and Kay Phillips; daughters and son-in-law, Kathy Carr, Kim and David Kellums; grandchildren, Lacey Sain, Amber McClain, Brandon Carr, Blake Phillips, Drew Kellums, Dustin Kellums, and Kasey Kellums; great-grandchildren, Caitlin McClain, Conner McClain, Kynzley Sain, Tanner Carr, Kalyana Sain, Khloe Phillips, Tegan Carr, Karsyn Phillips, Ben Kellums, and Kate Kellums; and one great-great-granddaughter, Maebry Sample.

The family will receive friends Thursday, April 4, from 11:00 a.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home.  The funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Tim Wooldridge officiating.  Burial will follow at Mountain Home Cemetery.

Blake Phillips, Brandon Carr, Drew Kellums, Dustin Kellums, Conner McClain, and Tanner Carr will serve as pallbearers.  Kasey Kellums will serve as an honorary pallbearer.

If one wishes to make a lasting memorial, please consider the Luke Kellums NICU Fund, http://Arcf.org/Luke.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.