Paul Renwick Phillips Jr., 80, of Wilmington, DE passed away on November 11, 2023 surrounded by family. Best known as “Paul” or to the family as “Renny” or “The Big P”. He was born in Wilmington, DE on April 27,1943 to Irene and Paul R Phillips Sr. Paul graduated from Henry C. Conrad High School, attended Goldey-Beacom Business College and was the owner of Phillips Glass and Window Hardware. He proudly served in the United State Marine Corp from 1966-1969 and served in Vietnam from 1966-1968 with the 9th Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division in Chu Li. In recognition of his service, he received the Vietnam Service Ribbon.
Paul joined the VFW in 1971 at Post 2863 in Wilmington, DE, where he maintained his Gold Legacy Life membership until his death. Paul touched many lives through his work with the VFW where his dedication to his country, his family and friends was always on display. He has served in elected and appointed positions at the Post, District, Department and National Levels such as: National Chief of Staff, National Council Member; Delaware State Commander; Delaware State and District 3 Adjutant; District Quartermaster, and all officer levels at the Diamond State Post 2863. Paul played taps for 35 years at the Memorial Day parade in Wilmington, DE. He is a life member of the Marine Corps League and the Military Order of the Cootie, serving as the Cootie Pup Tent Quartermaster and Grand Adjutant (2005-2021)
Paul was a colorful character. Ornery with a coarse exterior, but was always generous and had a big heart. Paul loved to travel and spend time with family and friends. Paul especially adored his 5 fur babies, who he would cook for and often ate better than he did.
Besides his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his sister, Susan, and his wife Catherine. Paul is survived by his sister Jean; brother Michael (Ruth); 6 children: Michele (Scott), Paul Kevin , Richard Sr, Robert Sr. (Emily), Catherine, Ronald (Dawn); 12 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, November 16, from 6-8pm, at the McCrery & Harra Funeral Homes, 3710 Kirkwood Hwy, Wilmington, DE 19808. Services and burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Paul’s name to any Veterans organization such as: Veterans of Foreign War, Wounded Warrior Project or a Veterans charity of your choice. To send condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com.
