Richard Burton Phillips, 87, of Galesburg, Illinois died on December 21, 2015 at his home.

He was born on January 30, 1928, in Sheridan, Wyoming, the son of Joseph and Eula May (Early) Phillips, and step-son of Waneitta Phillips.

He married Janette Phillips who preceded him in death in 1981.

He later married Helen (Poplett) Garrett in 2002. She preceded him in death in 2011.

Richard is survived by his sister, Sandy (Richard) Steffen of Fort Madison, Iowa, and a brother, Bob McClendon of Longmont, Colorado.

He was preceded in death by his parents, step-mother, sister, Beverly Price, and an adopted son, Keith Phillips.

Richard is survived by Helen's four children Kevin Ann (Jerry) Bindel, Michaela (John) Reynolds, Greg (Cheryl) Poplett, Jeff (Chrystal) Poplett, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by Helen's step-children, the Garrett families, and their children and grandchildren as well as treasured nieces and nephews. He dearly loved his extended family.

Richard was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving during World War II.

He earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Engineering from the University of Wyoming. He went on to work for GE for 27 years and Lockheed Martin for 15 years. He retired after many years of dedicated service in 2004.

Richard enjoyed traveling, photography, and sports. He enjoyed playing softball and tennis. He also enjoyed socializing with friends and going out to dinner. He was a member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Galesburg.

Cremations rites have been accorded. Services were held on Saturday, January 2, 2016 at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. The family suggests that memorials be directed to the St. Vincent De Paul Society, or theUniversity of Wyoming. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

The Sheridan Press - Jan. 7, 2016.