It is with deep sorrow and reverence that we announce the passing of Verner "Wayne" Phillips, who departed this life on November 30, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on October 21, 1944, in Dallas, Texas, Wayne was the cherished son of Verner and Alice (Morrison) Phillips.

Wayne's legacy is marked by his unwavering service and dedication. He attended Texas Tech University before enlisting in the United States Army, where he was stationed in San Francisco, California and also proudly represented his country during the Vietnam War. While in San Francisco he served as an M.P. for the Army and also worked in the MasterCharge credit card embossing division as a deputized officer. Following his honorable discharge, Wayne resided in Lubbock, Amarillo, Stillwater, (Oklahoma) and the DFW area of Texas, where he made significant contributions to the construction industry throughout his life.

Known for his remarkable self-sufficiency and extraordinary handyman skills. Wayne was a man of ingenuity - there was virtually nothing he could not repair or create with his own hands. He was a longtime active member of the Lions Club and in earlier years contributed special time and efforts to the Lions Eye Banks program recovering eye tissue for vision restoration, research and education. His commitment to the welfare of others was unwavering and an inspiration to others.

Wayne took immense pride in his family and enjoyed the precious moments spent with his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. As a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Buffalo, he served on the kitchen committee and participated in many church activities, including the cherished annual Christmas event, "The Bethlehem Experience." His love extended not only to his family but also to his furry service-dog companion, Liberty Belle, who brought him great joy and comfort especially after the passing of his wife, Melinda. A talented artist, Wayne expressed his creativity and passion through various artistic endeavors.

Having been a resident of Buffalo for the past twenty years, Wayne will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and the lasting mark he left on the lives of those who knew him.

Wayne was preceded in death by both of his parents; second wife, Melinda (Simmons) Phillips; son, Walter Phillips; and younger brothers, Paul Phillips and Dwight Phillips.

Surviving family members include children, Carolyn Tyler (Douglas) of Sachse and Elise Wines of Pierre, South Dakota; grandchildren, Kristin Clark (Tyler), Kaitlin Tyler, Kolbie Tyler, Korbin Tyler (Shelby), Christopher Phillips, Jonathon Stroud, and Deborah Wines; great-grandchildren, Hudson and Lincoln Clark; brother, Myron "Phil" Phillips of Haslet; sister-in-law, Vicki Phillips of Houston; first wife, Brita Phillips of Pierre, South Dakota; faithful dog, Liberty Belle; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and many special friends.

A funeral service will be held in honor of Wayne Phillips at the First Baptist Church, 600 East Commerce Street, Buffalo, Texas 75831 on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 11 A.M. Prior to the service, a visitation will take place at the church beginning at 10 A.M. Pastor of the church, Bro. Alan Grisham, will officiate the service. In celebrating his life, we invite all who knew and loved Wayne to join in remembering a remarkable man whose spirit will continue to inspire those he touched.

In accordance with Wayne's wishes, cremation followed by a private inurnment service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are requested to First Baptist Church, Bethlehem Experience, P.O. Box 304, Buffalo, Texas 75831.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.