DeVern Hunter Phillips

Wildlife and Parks announced they are withdrawing Mr. Phillips lifetime hunting and fishing permit. Mr. Phillips will be unable to use that permit in his current residence. In addition, Wildlife and Parks stated that Mr. Phillips had harvested far too many pheasants and quail and too few clay pigeons. Mr. Phillips’ parents, D.H. and Ruth Phillips, siblings, Judy McDowell, and Gerald Phillips preceded him in death. Rebecca Phillips, the love of his life, survives. They shared fifty-one years of fun, pain, laughs and tears. She was more than any man could wish for as a wife, lover, friend, and companion. DeVern and Rebecca’s daughter and son-in-law, Crystal and Stephen Shanks, and their four children Stephen, Aspen, Devi, and Reili also survive. Crystal’s position as a travel nurse, permitted them to move abroad beautiful places such as Florida, Idaho, and Arizona, and to return to her hometown when needed. DeVern was eternally grateful for their help and sacrifice. DeVern was one of the Fearsome Foursome, a group representing “more than forty years” of friendship and brotherhood. His brothers Donald “Two Star” Jacka, Larry “Fetch” Karns, and Terry “The Norwegian” Nygaard carry on the legacy. Mr. Phillips’ instructions to his family, “Tell the guys I’m going up ahead to scout out this place.” Mr. Phillips leaves behind a multitude of former students as well as family and friends. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13) Mr. Phillips always enjoyed joking and storytelling. He had one final laugh to share with those he loved, “An old man lay dying on his bed surrounded by his family and friends. As he lay dying, he raised himself up on an elbow and said, “I’ve not been a good husband nor a good father. I’ve spent too much money on guns, fishing, whiskey and dogs. I’ve not been around when I should have been for my family with my hunting and fishing trips. I have missed too many special occasions in my family’s lives such as birthdays, graduations, marriages, and births of my grandchildren. And for that, I’m terribly sorry. He gasped and laid back in bed and everyone thought he’d spoken his last. Shortly thereafter, he rallied himself up and spoke once more, ‘On the other hand, I’ve had a hell of a good time.’ ” If we all can say at the end of our lives on earth, “I’ve had a hell of a good time, we have had a life well lived.” Composed by DeVern Hunter Phillips, “Grizz”, “Mr. P” Friday, November 5, 2020 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ DeVern’s family and friends are familiar with his heart of generosity, compassion, and humility. He requested to forego a traditional memorial service, but as he loved storytelling the family wishes to honor him in a manner congruent to his example. Please share your thoughts or other stories of joy with DeVern at: www.kevinbrennanfamily.com. Due to a plethora of allergies the family requests no food or flowers without first clearing it with the ‘boss’, Rebecca. Cards and ‘stories’ are always welcomed. MEMORIAL FUND FOR DEVERN HUNTER PHILLLIPS DeVern’s drive for knowledge was influence by his maternal grandmother who was a teacher. He created the Elsie Banks Educational Scholarship Fund to assist students paying for higher education. Please send memorial contributions to the fund, payable to: Western Hills Church MEMO: DeVern Phillips 2900 SW Auburn Road Topeka, KS. 66614

DeVern Hunter Phillips

April 6, 1946 - February 17, 2021