Michael Phillips Obituary

Michael A. Phillips, age 78, of Crossville, TN, passed away on April 5, 2025, at Cumberland Medical Center.
Mr. Phillips was born on January 3, 1947, in Norris, TN, son of the late Gaines Phillips and Kate (Solesbee) Phillips.
Michael proudly served our country in the Marine Corps and National Guard for six years. He had a successful career as a pharmaceutical representative and territory manager for Abbott Laboratories for 35 years. Michael earned a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Kemmer Phillips; daughter, Sara Phillips Edwards (Russ); grandchildren, Kalynn Phillips, Ella Grace Edwards, and Hayden Edwards; siblings, Larry Phillips (Charlotte), Sandra Merryman, and Kathy Butler; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Michael is preceded in death by his son, Sherman Gaines Phillips; sister and brother-in-law, Jewel and Earl Williams; brother-in-law, Bob Merryman; brother-in-law, Ed Butler; and in-laws, W.M. and Bobbye Kemmer.
Michael lettered in basketball and track and was a lifelong athlete in many sports, especially tennis. He loved biking, motorcycling, and classic cars. Michael retired to Grassy Cove with his wife and enjoyed nothing more than his grandchildren.
A man with a big personality, Michael was a friend to all he encountered, but his character, integrity, and deep faith made him a role model to all who were blessed to know him.
Funeral Service will be held at Bilbrey Funeral Home and Cremation Service on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 3:00 PM with burial to follow at Grassy Cove Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 1:00 to 3:00 PM prior to the service.
Arrangements and Care provided by Bilbrey Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
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