Walter Phillips Sr.

Walter Mackey Phillips Sr., 102 of Lonaconing, MD, went to his heavenly home on Friday March 5, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family.  Born on January 4, 1919 in Lonaconing, he was the son of the late John and Estella Phillips.

He was preceded in death by one son, Allan Phillips; one brother, James Phillips and nine sisters, Rose May Robertson, Dorothy Steele, Isabel McDonough, Jeanette Iser, Eleanor Cameron, Marian Llewellyn, Betty Stevenson and the twins, Mary Catherine Sowers and Frances Metz.

He leaves behind his children, Walter “Mac” Phillips Jr. and wife Donna Jean of Barton, MD, Donald Phillips and wife Pam of Hedgesville, WV and Bonnie Mitchell and life partner Tim Whitehead of Lonaconing, MD; 10 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Mr. Phillips served in the United States Army and was a World War II veteran where he fought in the Battle of the Bulge under Gen. George S. Patton.  He was a life-long member of James P. Love American Legion, Lonaconing.  He attended school until the eighth grade when he left to work in the coal mines.  He worked many years a machine operator and retired at age 62 from Buffalo Coal Co.  While he was still able, you could always find him working in his garden with his dog Nort by his side and his goat Benji not too far off.  He believed in hard work and would tell you, “A little hard work never hurt anyone”.  He loved to sing and tell stories.  He was a sweet, kind and soft spoken person who loved all.

A special mention to ex-wife, neighbor and friend Madeline McKenzie; David McKenzie, who he loved like his own son, and granddaughter, Kathy Mitchell, who cared for him throughout his remaining years.

Due to current Covid-19 restrictions, the family will have a private memorial service at Rocky Gap Veteran’s Cemetery with Pastor Shawn Shumaker officiating.  Fort Cumberland Post 13 American Legion will provide Military Honors.  Wilhelm-Eakin Funeral Home P.A. assisted the family with arrangements.