Lawrence Donald Phillips

DURHAM-Mr. Lawrence Donald Phillips, 84, passed away on Saturday, July 31, 2021.

Mr. Phillips was born July 26, 1937 to the late James and Beulah Winstead Phillips in Durham, NC. He was Senior Master Sergeant for 28 years in the United States Air Force. Lawrence loved his country and was proud to serve it. He worked as a ground radar and communications superintendent. He also had an extensive educational background including degrees from the US Air Force Senior NCO Academy and NCO Academy, respectively. He served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, respectively.

He was awarded numerous medals and ribbons over his military career including: Meritorious Service Medal (one oak leaf cluster), Air Force Commendation Medal (three oak leaf clusters), Air Force Good Conduct Medal (six oak leaf clusters), Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, NCO Professional Education Ribbon (one oak leaf cluster), Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon (five oak leaf clusters), National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Excellence citation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Korean Presidential Unity Citation, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Mr. Phillips is survived by his loving wife, Doris Phillips; sister, Joyce Whitfield (James); son, Louis Phillips Altobelli; daughters, Dondra Phillips, Tina Phillips-Martinez (Armando), Bobbie Phillips, and Lisa Phillips (John); grandchildren, Crystal Hall, Stefanie Summers (Roger), Rachael Stephens, Michael Stephens, Dylan Phillips, Stacy Farmer (Danny), Phillip Farmer, and Allen Farmer; and his great-grandchildren, Taylor Hall Pridgen, Andrew Pridgen, Kennedi Pridgen, Kameron Pridgen, Maverick Elich, Daniel Berganza, and JJ Berganza.

A graveside service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Officiating will be Pastor Marc Francis.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.