Mr. Ben Phillips

November 2, 1959 - January 23, 2022

Mr. Rufus Benjamin Phillips, 62, of Bio Church Road, Dewy Rose, passed away January 23, 2022 at St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital, Lavonia. Born on November 2, 1959 in Clearwater, FL, he was the son of Fran Joyce Driver Phillips and the late Rufus Burnice Phillips. Mr. Phillips graduated from the University of Georgia with a Pharmacy degree and was employed with Scottie’s Drug Store in Hartwell. Ben began his military career in the US Navy and he ended it in the US Air Force where he was honorably discharged with the rank of Captain. He also was a member of the Sardis Baptist Church. Survivors include his mother: Fran Joyce Phillips; his wife: Debbie Cordell Phillips; one son: Slade Phillips (Caitlin) of White GA; one daughter: Stephanie Bennett (Josh) of Ludowici GA; one brother: Rod Phillips (Tina) of Griffin GA; four grandchildren: Sophia Bennett, Jaylee Bennett, Rhett Phillips and Jaxon Phillips. The family will receive friends Thursday afternoon from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell. Other times the family will be at the home. A memorial service celebrating Ben’s life will be held Thursday, January 27, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home with Rev. John Silver officiating. Flowers are optional, and memorials may be made to a charity of one’s choice. The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.