James Lewis Phillips

James Lewis Phillips, age 73, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, passed away on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. Son of James William Phillips and Rose Mary (Gates) Phillips. Born July 16, 1950, in Evansville, Indiana. James is survived by his beloved wife Diana Teresa (Smith) Phillips; his children Michelle Louise (Phillips) Popilek, James Marvin Phillips, and Jamie Sue Phillips; 7 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; two brothers, Sam and Mark Phillips. He was preceded in death by his mother Rose Mary, father James, and brothers Donald, Keith and Mack. James will be remembered for his storytelling, kind heart, and unwavering love for his family and animals. James graduated from Central High School in Evansville, Indiana, in the Spring of 1968. He then went on to enlist in the Marine Corps in November of that same year. During his time in Vietnam, he earned a National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and Vietnam Campaign Medal. He was a proud member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 566 in Port St. Lucie, FL, showcasing Semper Fi throughout his life. After his time in the service James met the love of his life Diana and married on April 25, 1981. They lived happily in Evansville, Indiana majority of their life where James worked for the United States Postal Service until his retirement; when they decided to move to sunny Port St. Lucie, FL, in 2018. James was a beloved husband, brother, father, uncle, grandfather and great grandfather. Not only was James a proud Vietnam Veteran, he also had numerous, ever-changing passions. Some of his hobbies included his extensive coin and stamp collections, fishing, hunting, spending time with his family and animals, and of course, telling cheesy jokes. James had an avid thirst for knowledge and appreciation for history. He was often spending his spare time researching topics of interest and reading books. He enjoyed expanding his knowledge so much so that he went on to earn multiple college degrees later on in his life and even taught at Port St. Lucie Middle School. He was incredibly inquisitive and knowledgeable and loved to share his knowledge with anyone and everyone. James’ loyalty to the ones he loved was fierce, despite hardships faced, he never wavered in his love for those around him. His legacy will carry on forever reminding us to be proud, to love, to choose to live a life full of meaningful acts, and Semper Fi, always. We miss you, but heaven is so lucky to have you. A Celebration of Life for James will be at a later date. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure… You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. Condolences may be made online at www.pierrefuneralhome.com

James Lewis Phillips

July 16, 1950 - March 6, 2024