Richard L. Phillips, Sr. 70, of Martinsburg died Sunday, November 18, 2018, while surrounded by his family at his home in Martinsburg. He was born July 17, 1948, in Farson, Iowa, the son of Carl Edward and Margaret Irene Witt Phillips. He graduated from Fremont High School with the class of 1967. On July 16, 1967, he was united in marriage to Connie Cronk, at the Fremont United Methodist Church in Fremont. In 1968 Richard joined the Air Force where he was a firefighter from 1968 through 1972. Richard spent his working life driving semi all over the mid-west. When he was not in the truck he was working on the farm. He loved to mow his yard, as soon as he was done with work for the day he would climb on the lawnmower. He enjoyed stock car racing especially 6 cylinder modifies. He also enjoyed coffeetime with the guys in Martinsburg. He delighted in spending time with (and teasing) his family especially his grandchildren.

His family includes his wife of over 51 years, Connie Phillips of Martinsburg; two sons, Scott (Bobbie McCarty) Phillips of Hedrick and Todd (Krystal) Phillips of Batavia; two daughter in laws, Lisa Phillips of Ottumwa and Amy Phillips of Sigourney; five grandchildren, Codey (Tiffany Sallee) Phillips, Dakota Phillips, Ethan Phillips, Dalana Phillips, and Jayden Phillips; a great granddaughter, Bella; five sisters, Sharon Jamison of Aberdeen, Washington, Arlene Meinders of Oskaloosa, Betty Ann Mickles of Beacon, Janet Blizzard of Oskaloosa, and Marcia (Bill) Harris of Boone, a very special niece, Theresa (Dan) Bastian, and many other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a son Richard Phillips, Jr.; his parents; two brothers, Irvin Phillips and Tony Phillips; and two sisters, Janice Phillips and Joyce Plate.

A celebration of life service will be held Monday, November 26, 2018, at 3 p.m. in the First Pentecostal Church in Ottumwa with Pastor Richard Slaughter officiating. As was Richards wish his body has been cremated and no visitation is planned. The Fremont Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be made to the family.