Rudy Lee Phillips

Rudy Lee Phillips, 81, of Troy died Wednesday Nov. 19, 2008 at his home on Angel Island.

He was born Dec. 26, 1926 in Laurel – the fourth of six children – to William & Julia (Hackert) Phillips. He grew up in Laurel and graduated from LHS, always to be a loyal Locomotive. To be with his older brothers, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. A World War II veteran, he was honorably discharged in1947.

He married Edythe (Bligh) Busby on Sept. 10, 1948. He attended EMC and began employment at Carter Oil Co., in Billings. He retired as an operations superintendent in 1986, after 38 years with ExxonMobile.

Mr. Phillips’ work included world travel, which the couple enjoyed. After his retirement, they moved to Angel Island.

He was a past post commander of the Laurel VFW. As an outdoor sportsman, he was a member of the Rod & Gun Club. The couple loved square dancing with their friends. He was co-founder of the Aqua Knights Dive Team of Laurel. He was known as a family man and was an uncle to 36 nieces and nephews.

His wife, Bligh, and his brothers, Hack, Cliff, Harry and Jim, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his sister Armelda (Michael) Sassano of Helena; his five children, David L. Phillips of Butte; Susan B. Whittaker of Troy; Coberly A. Phillips of Bozeman; Cory J. Phillips (Debi) of Edgar; Glenn Richard (Julie) Phillips of Laurel; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Saturday Nov. 29 at 11 a.m., at Saint Anthony’s Parish 700 W. Third St., in Laurel.

Interment together with his wife will follow the memorial service at Laurel Cemetery. A luncheon will then follow at Saint Anthony’s Parish Hall.

Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home in Libby handled arrangements.