Celebrating the life of
Rev. Wendell R. Phillips
January 27, 1939 - July 04, 2026
The Rev. Wendell Roncevalle Phillips, a retired Episcopal priest serving in the Diocese of Georgia, died peacefully at his home on July 4, 2026, at the age of 87.
During his long ministry, Father Phillips served St. George’s in Astoria, NY; Holy Trinity in Whitefish, Montana; St. Paul’s and St. Matthew’s in Salisbury, NC; St. Michael and All Angels in Charlotte, NC.; and most recently, at the age of 87, as a supply priest at St. Matthew’s in Savannah, GA.
Born in New Rochelle, New York, he faced challenging obstacles at the age of 9 when a coma and high fever from measles encephalitis left him with uncontrolled epileptic seizures and a long road back to normal life. He eventually overcame every obstacle, graduating with honors from Denison University, earning an MDiv from General Seminary and entering ordained ministry as an Episcopal priest in 1966.
Father Phillips was an inspired preacher, an accomplished organist, and most of all a survivor, who had great compassion and mercy for those who were dealing with the struggles and challenges of life. He was a pastor and friend to many who had been dealt defeating blows, seeing the face of Jesus in the faces of the poor, orphaned and outcast. He was slow to anger, quick to forgive, lighthearted and unusually adept at spinning a good pun. He was never without a favorite book, pressed shirt, raincoat, or tuneful harmony for any occasion. In his final years he was beloved by those he comforted with music in nursing homes and enjoyed hosting neighbors for Christmas carols around the organ in his living room.
Wendell was a good and gentle man who loved his family dearly. Having given his life to Jesus at a Billy Graham crusade in the 1950s, and having run the race set before him, his eternal life has now begun. Well done good and faithful servant.
He is survived by his sons Jonathan Lindsay Phillips (Lauren), Savannah, GA; The Rev. Thomas Morgan Phillips (Julia), Melbourne, FL; four grandchildren Luke, Anna, Sonny, and Bobby; his loving wife of 54 years Linda, and his sister Andrée (Dan) Conklin of Milford, NY. He was preceded in death by a brother, Morgan Phillips, and his parents, Marguerite and the Rev. Canon Wendell W. Phillips, D.D.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Emmaus House, 18 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31401, or any organization that will help someone in need.
A Memorial Service be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Christ Church Episcopal, 28 Bull Street, Savannah, GA 31401.
Our sincere condolences on your loss. We remember his wonderful sermon at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. We were truly impressed. With all our love. Roger & Elizabeth
- Roger & Elizabeth Teurfs, Viera, FL
Wonderful and devoted Linda, John, Tom and family, the news of Father Wendell's death “hit hard” to the Sessoms Family. After hearing of him moving on to be with the LORD, our conversations centered around stories of Father Wendell's relationship with his family - Linda and the Twins, the number of and ages of the grands children. Rev Wendell was so proud of each of you. We talked about his intellect and concern for our church and the community. We texted about the love Father Wendell showed as he “showed up!” He actually visited the sick, the orphaned and those in prison. I believe he saw THE JESUS in everyone he met. Reverend Wendell Phillips was one of the most authentically loving person I have known in my life. Connie always talk about listening to Rev Wendell playing the organ as they were readying the altar on Saturdays. “He played the organ with his soul!” Know that Rev was loved. May GOD continue to bless each of you and give you peace.
- Flo Sessoms, Charlotte, North Carolina
Our condolences to the family.. Only seeing/hearing this gracious man at Holy Trinity in Florida, we new how special he was to everyone. With our love to all.. Linda and Bill
- William Trauterman, Middleboro, MA
I have known Ron since 1973, when he came out with Linda to Burp Holler, to officiate the wedding of mutual friends. Over the years we shared many stories, meals, large pots of coffee, and family events, births of children and adventures in home ownership. He was an honest, truthful man, who always did his best to make our world a better place. He will be greatly missed.
- Gene Biboux, Cheshire, Oregon
My sincerest condolences to the family of Father Phillips. As a member of St. Matthew's, here in Savannah, I had the pleasure of many brief conversations. Especially, to compliment him on his strong singing voice. Rest Peacefully in God's Beautiful Paradise. You are missed!!!
- Sandra Mitchell, Savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Memorial Service
- 11:00 a.m. on Sat, August 01, 2026
- Christ Church Episcopal on Johnson Square
-
28 Bull Street (map)
Savannah GA 31401 - 912-236-2500
