of Conway, AR
February 5, 1949 - November 27, 2020
William Richard ''Bill'' Phillips was born February 5th, 1949 to Earl and Hazel Phillips of Harrison, Arkansas. His childhood was spent on the hill of Woodland Heights playing kick the can, swimming in Crooked Creek and eating steaks at Spike Cavender's house.
Early in life Bill would develop athletic talent and received a football scholarship to Arkansas State University and would meet his wife Peggy Ann Brinkley of Turrel, Arkansas. After leading the 1970 Arkansas State Indian Football team to a national championship, Bill was drafted by the Denver Broncos. Phillips' athletic career would later make him a dual inductee to the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame, both as an individual and as a member of the 1970 Arkansas State Football Team.
After Bill returned from Denver it soon proved that his natural charisma, likability and well known, ''larger than life'' personality soon proved him a natural match for sales and he soon accelerated the ranks of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, where he once again proved to be exceptional in another profession.
Fifteen years later Bill entered the 3rd phase of his professional career when Blue Cross would tap him to lead their newly formed Governmental Relations division and Phillips quickly made a smooth transition from sales to lobbying. Bill was known at the Capitol for his honesty and integrity as lawmakers throughout the years consistently named him as ''one of the ones you knew was always telling the truth''. Bill served the people of the State of Arkansas by quickly rushing to solve policy dilemmas without receiving credit, where he was always quick to defend his modesty by stating that it was a lobbyist's job to serve the State and that his thank you card was a paycheck and the honor to continue working at the Capitol.
Bill went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on the morning of November 27th with his wife of 51 years by his side. He is survived by his son, Bradley Jordan and his grandson, William ''Little Bill'' Richard Phillips of Conway, Arkansas; his sister and brother in law Kay and Rusty Hayes of Harrison; Pam Hunter of Ozark, MO and numerous beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jim Phillips of Harrison, AR.
Bill was a proud member of 2nd Baptist Church and asks that donations be made to the church in lieu of flowers.
Sign Guestbook
46 Condolence(s)
Archie and Valeeta Snow
Sunday, December 13, 2020
We were saddened to here of Bill's passing, Peggy and Brad. Your family holds a special memory for our family. We will never forget the kindness you always showed us while our children were young. I don't think they will, either. Love you. Archie and Valeeta
Todd Wright
Tuesday, December 8, 2020
So sorry to learn of the passing of Mr. Phillips, such a great man and role model as a kid growing up. My thoughts, prayers and hugs are will Peggy and Bradley.
Dale Wagner
Monday, December 7, 2020
I was married to Pat Hudson , niece of Floyd Hudson and worked with Bill’s Dad at Sav-Stop . Also went pheasant and quail hunting with he and Jim . He was a fine man and will be missed by many . My thoughts and prayers are with youall . Don’t see Kay and Rusty much but love youall. Dale Wagner
Max Tackett
Sunday, December 6, 2020
Bill was a good man and he always had a smile on his face and he always would take the time to talk to you. He was well respected and we’ll miss you. Max Tackett
Victoria Edwards
Thursday, December 3, 2020
To Bill's family, I worked with him when he was a Sales Rep at Blue Cross. He was a kind man and always knew your name away from work. He always had a smile for all of us. So, so sorry. May God be with all of you.
Regina H. Favors
Thursday, December 3, 2020
I had the pleasure of working with Bill Phillips for many years at Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. He was a gentleman, customer focused and always jolly and positive. To Peggy and the rest of the family, Daniel and I offer our condolences and prayers.
Joyce Hamilton
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
My sympathies and prayers for Bills family. I worked with Bill at BCBS. He was my mentor and also my friend. He always had a smile and a big hug when we met at state functions after we both left the Big Blue. He was the kind of person that you will always remember with good thoughts and happy that you had a chance to know him.
Bob Blankenship
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
Peggy and Brad, Catherin and I are so sorry to hear of Bills passing. Everyone that knew him, knew of the quality person he was. God Bless you and we'll be praying for comfort in this difficult time.
g.B. Harp
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
Larger than life I can not imagine words that describe Bill better. We went to school together and played sports together he was always a leader and never gave less than 110 percent.
To the family words are not enough to fill your sorrow right now. Take pride in this Husband, Father and Grandfather and know that the lord holds a special place for people like Bill. There are people all over the state that this man helped but they would never hear it from Bill he was just a good man who from the Golden Goblins to the ASU Indians to the Orange Crush of Denver to the work he did with the legislature he just was always a leader.
It is a loss of presence but the Lord got a leader. The Lord will let Bill rest with no pain now
Bob Barham
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
I am honored to have known such a fine man. I was always glad to visit with him at the State Capitol when he would walk through. My deepest sympathy and prayers for his good family. Bill will be sorely missed by many, many people. God Bless each of you.
Cpl. Bob Barham
AR State Capitol Police [Retired]
Mike Moore
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
Bill will always be one of my favorite people. He was always a gentleman and always a friend. He will be missed by many people.
Dee Rodgers
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
When I interviewed with Arkansas Blue Cross in 1986 Bill was VP of Group Sales and the third person I met. While it was an interview, it was more like visiting with a friend. A feeling you always had even when he was lighting you up for doing something stupid.
While our career paths changed I still saw Bill couple of times a year for the next 25 and he would always ask about my wife and kids by name and even when busy, would cross the room to shake my hand.
Mine and Sharon's deepest sympathy!! He was one of a kind. Dee
Lillie Fears
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
I am sorry to hear this news. Trust God during this time of adjustment.
Susan Hudson Beeler
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
Dear Peggy, I am so sad to hear of Bill’s passing. Chuck and I always enjoyed being around Bill. He was cheerful and joking with us all the time. Now he smiling with his heavenly family.
Jeannie Smith
Monday, November 30, 2020
Peggy, it has been a very long time since teaching with you at Eagle Heights Elementary School. My heart goes out to you in the loss of Bill. Sending love and sympathy for peace and understanding at this most difficult time. I have only good memories of you and Bill during the time you lived in Harrison.
Tommy Tice
Monday, November 30, 2020
Bill was a fine man, a true friend and I will miss him very much. The world is a lesser place without Bill in it.
Don Phillips
Monday, November 30, 2020
To Peggy, Bradley, and Little Bill. So sad to hear of Bill’s passing. I always enjoyed spending time with Bill when our families would get together. He always had a smile and loved to laugh and joke around. Very proud of him and all of his accomplishments. I pray God will embrace all the family with Peace and Comfort.
Russell williams
Monday, November 30, 2020
I was a sophomore on the Harrison high school football team in 1973 when Bill was our assistant coach. He was always very up beat and positive. We had a good season that year and I credit Bill with setting the tone for being persevering in the face of adversity. He was a shining light!
Marvin & Kristi Parks
Monday, November 30, 2020
Dear Peggy & Bradley -
I know we texted this message earlier, but wanted to sign the guest book as well.
There are few crushing griefs worse than losing a husband or a dad.
I lost my dad when I was 13 and I’ve learned over the years that 13 or 60, it’s a devastating loss.
Bill was a “salt of the earth†gentleman. He played a key role in influencing me to pursue lobbying. I always remember his guidance and encouragement when I first began along with his willingness to meet with me multiple times to answer my questions and offer advice. I asked him once how he liked his work as a lobbyist and he replied...â€Marvin, I hope I never have to do anything else for a living!†He was exemplary in that role. He will be missed by so many!!
We know your hearts are broken - We know the days ahead will be an overwhelming time of loss and grief.
Our hearts are hurting for you as you walk through this valley!
We will be praying that God brings comfort as only He can.
Gods peace be yours,
Marvin & Kristi
We cling to this truth....
Isa 61:1-3
He gives beauty for ashes!
We don’t know how... We don’t know when... May you hold on to this truth in the days ahead!
Brian Horne
Monday, November 30, 2020
I was so sorry to hear about Bill’s death. I played football at Harrison in the late 1970’s, and Bill was a volunteer coach. He taught me so much about how to be a football player, and many young men on that team became better people because of his influence. He was such a good man, and I’m sorry for your loss!
Charles Richmond
Monday, November 30, 2020
Bill Phillips was my best friend in High School. I admired him so much, and was especially proud when he went to a bowl game in Arlington Tx, where I lived at the time. I got to see how football players were treated almost like royalty at bowl games. My condolences to his wife and the rest of his family,
Tim & Wendy Ryals
Monday, November 30, 2020
We were so fortunate to have known Bill for the pass 8 years! The Phillips family has been a tremendous blessing to us and we will surely miss him and his enormous generosity and kindness! He was a sweet spirited husband, father, and friend! Prayers and hugs to you, Peggy, Bradley and Little Bill! Love y’all!
Former State Senator Sharon Trusty
Monday, November 30, 2020
I am so sad to learn of Bill's passing, prayers of comfort for you, Bradley and to Peggy.
In my 10 years of service in the Arkansas State Senate, Bill was one of my 'go-to' people when I needed to know more about the impact of legislation on my constituents. He had integrity, character and was always honest, a fine Christian man, and I enjoyed working with him so much.
Former State Senator Sharon Trusty
Bob Cotton McBryde
Monday, November 30, 2020
WilI miss seeing Bill , he was a great man.
Roger Rorie
Monday, November 30, 2020
Bill was a true friend we had lots of conversations until his health deteriorated when he came through Clinton he would call and we would meet for a cup of coffee and exchange lots of stories, he will be missed by lots of people. Peggy I am truly sorry for your loss.
Fred Bean
Monday, November 30, 2020
Bill and I started in the insurance business the same week and I often think of the great times we had together. Bill and I had an opportunity to be together again in recent years working on legislative/insurance issues. Bill was always such a pleasure to be with.
Peggy, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Claudia Tucker
Monday, November 30, 2020
The Teladoc Health Family will sincerely miss Bill. On a personal note, I will miss Bill dearly. He was more than just a colleague but someone that I considered a dear friend. Bill was the epitome of a Southern Gentleman and I had tremendous respect for him. He lives on in "Little Bill". My deepest condolences to Peggy, Bradley and the family.
Ervin Pate
Monday, November 30, 2020
Bill and I worked at Blue Cross. We hunted together each fall.
He always had a smile for everyone.
Our family is praying for his family.
Patti Roberts Julian
Monday, November 30, 2020
I was priveleged to know Bill for forty years both through my parents, my work at Blue Cross, and my time as a legislator and lobbyist. I’ve never known a kinder more genuine man. I looked forward to being wrapped up in one of his huge hugs every time I saw him. It hurts my heart to know I won’t see him again. He was the finest of men.
Mac Bellingrath
Monday, November 30, 2020
Peggy, my heart is so saddened to learn of the passing of Bill. He was truly one of the finest people I have ever known. With integrity beyond reproach, he was always modest, gentle in manner, and an uplifting person to be around. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Terry and Pam Reynolds
Monday, November 30, 2020
Our sincerest sympathy to the family. Bill was a great role model for many.
Cliff Hoofman
Monday, November 30, 2020
Bill was one of the most special people I came to know, in my 4 decades around the State Capitol. He was a man of integrity, with whom I spent time discussing many issues while we both quail hunted, and followed my coon hounds. A good man, who always followed the "Do right rule"
John R. Phillips
Sunday, November 29, 2020
I met Bill when he was in Woodland Heights Elementary School at Harrison. I was the other Phillips in his class. I graduated with Bill at Harrison and as fate would have it, I, graduated from ASU the same time that Bill did. Bill and I, played football together at Harrison. Bill was always a true friend. He would show friendship to me when we met. Even when he came back to Harrison. Bill Phillips will be always a great man and true friend. Peggy, we are sorry for your loss.
John Eoff
Sunday, November 29, 2020
Peggy and family,
So sorry for your loss. Bill was a tremendous athlete and a wonderful person. He was like a brother to the Eoff boys. Seeing his smile and talking about our years growing up brought us great joy and laughter. May God give you peace through this time. I mourn Bill leaving us but take comfort in knowing where Bill and my brother Roy are today.
Susan Hutchinson
Sunday, November 29, 2020
Bill was a true gentleman and Christian in every respect.
He will be greatly missed by ALL who loved and respected him.
Andy Isely
Sunday, November 29, 2020
Mr. Phillips had a smile on his face every time we met , I will truly miss him.
Andy
Todd Pedersen
Sunday, November 29, 2020
Bill, I will mis our football discussions. Praying for the family.
Richie Arnold
Sunday, November 29, 2020
May God comfort your dear family now and in the days to come with fond memories of this remarkable man.
Praying for you all.
Richie and Beverly Arnold
Slade Mitchell
Sunday, November 29, 2020
Bill was one of the finest gentlemen a person could ever have the pleasure of knowing. He was the embodiment of servant leadership. I am thankful for the example he was to me both professionally and personally.
Our prayers are with his family.
Kathy and Joe Edwards
Sunday, November 29, 2020
Bill was so full of kindness, a sweet smile, and laughter for everyone. He leaves us with a space always for him in our hearts, as well as wonderful memories of fun and good times we shared with him and Peggy over the many years of our friendship. He will most definitely be missed.
Mike Mallory
Sunday, November 29, 2020
Bill was a man who made you feel good to be around. Thank you God for letting our paths cross.
Donnie Watts
Sunday, November 29, 2020
To Peggy, Bradley, and grandson Little Bill and all of the others who knew and loved Bill. Deepest sympathies for your loss all too soon. Classmate, teammate on the basketball court, and friend who was always wonderful to see and visit with at class reunions. It is easy to see how he was successful in all aspects of his life. A good man. May God grant you comfort, understanding, and peace now and in the future.
Donnie & Bobbye Watts
Jake Rice
Sunday, November 29, 2020
Bill’s character and honesty made a profound impact in my life. These virtues will endure in those that had the opportunity to know and have a relationship with him.
Your family will be remembered in my prayers!
Linda and Paul Mathis
Sunday, November 29, 2020
Bill will always be with us. He will be missed by many. Paul said they had many adventures while going to Woodland Heights Elementary School. Our class of '67 has lost another sweet soul. Rest in Peace Bill. Love and hugs for you Peggy and Bradley you are all in our prayers.
Mel Blackwood
Saturday, November 28, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Phillips Family. Mel and Donna Blackwood
Melinda Reynolds
Saturday, November 28, 2020
Peggy, Bradley and little Bill, Mr. Bill was such a good man. He was so supportive when I was in office. I always enjoyed being able to work with him. You will be in my prayers.