Rodney Joe Phillips

Rodney “Joe” Phillips, 77, of Paoli, IN passed away at 5:30 AM on July 8, 2026, at his home in the arms of his wife, Debra. He was born June 27,1949 in Paoli, Indiana to James W. and Lillie Walls Phillips, both of whom preceded him in death. Joe married Debra Gourley on April 29, 1972, and she survives.

Joe was also preceded in death by his:

Brothers: Jerry Max Phillips, Scott Phillips, and James David Phillips

Joe and Debra had spent 56 years together, 54 of those being married. Joe always had a smile on his face and a story to tell you of a job he was doing or had done. Or a tale about a hunting dog or a good mule he use to own. Or a slap your leg story about a golf game. He had started Save-A-Buck Construction close to 40 years ago with his spouse Debra Phillips. Later, they had help from their son, Brad Phillips, nephew, Bruiser Phillips, and brother, Ollie Philllips. He retired from Mitchell & Stark Construction as a Supervisor in 1999, with 30 years in the Laborers Union #795 in New Albany. He was a disabled Vietnam Veteran who had beaten 5 other cancers. Joe was a tough “old fart” and had fought for 3 years to beat these last 2 cancers. He never wanted to quit. He loved his family. They don’t make them like this anymore. Joe and Debra has welcomed their first great-granddaughter. Joe loved to spend time with his wife Debra sitting on the front porch and watching the critters. Debra and the ole front porch are going to miss him. Joe loved their three Boston Terriers, especially Miss Tiffy.

Surviving Joe:

2 Sons:

Brad (Autumn) Phillips Paoli, IN

Matt (Raven) Phillips Paoli, IN

4 Brothers:

Larry (Diane) Phillips Paoli, IN

Kevin (Lisa) Phillips French Lick, IN

Kippy (Geri) Phillips West Baden, IN

Ollie Phillips (Companion: Mary Lou Patton) Paoli, IN

Sister-In-Laws:

Barbara Phillips Paoli, IN

Bobbi Gourley (Companion: Charlie Graznak) Columbia, MO

Brother-In-Laws:

Tony (Vesna) Gourley Loves Park, IL

Paul King Orleans, IN

Grandchildren: Brianna Phillips, Ryan Phillips (Companion: Aliayah Hendern), Kenadi Phillips, and Braylee Phillips

Great-Grandchild: Amelia Phillips

Special Nephew: Bruiser Phillips

Special Cousin: Kenny Hobson

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Dillman-Scott Funeral Home. (226 W. Campbell St. Paoli, IN 47454)

Cremation to follow.

In lieu of flowers, Debra asks to please, please donate to the Lawrence County Dog Club. (P.O. Box 113. Mitchell, IN 47446)

Online condolences can be made at dillmanscottfuneralhome.com