LARRY PHILLIPS

Larry Wayne Phillips, 73, died Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023 at his home in rural Seward County.

He was born July 30, 1950 to Melvyn Rae and Glenda Janice (Pedersen) Phillips.

He graduated from Liberal High School in 1968. During his high school career, he was class president, performed in several plays and held the pole vault record at LHS for many years.

He attended the University of Oklahoma before starting a career in the oil and gas industry that led him across the globe, including extended stays on the Alaska Northern Slope and throughout the Pacific Rim.

He returned to Liberal in 2000 and began a career as a newspaper reporter for the Southwest Daily Times before becoming the managing editor, a position he filled until his retirement with the Leader & Times in 2017. During his tenure as managing editor, the newspaper was recognized with multiple Sweepstakes awards, and he garnered several individual awards for his writing, in particular for his writing on the Opinion page.

He was honored by the Liberal Chamber of Commerce on their Men and Women of Distinction calendar.

Survivors include son, Tyler Phillips and daughter-in-law, Kristie, Ponte Vedra, Fla.; grandson, Jake Phillips, Ponte Vedra, Fla.; granddaughter, Vivian Phillips, Ponte Vedra, Fla.; sister Joy Beasley, Kismet; brother, Anthony Phillips, Liberal; nieces, Tina Chester, Texas City, Texas, and Tosha Jones, Smyrna Tenn.; nephews: Abe Velasquez Jr., Texas City, Texas, Melvyn Velasquez, Liberal, and Robert Phillips, Smyrna Tenn.; 19 great-nieces and great-nephews; and 10 great- great-nieces and great-great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother Curtis Phillips.

• Memorial services will be at 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023 at his country home, 14498 Road T in Kismet, with Rev. Rex Petty presiding.

Those attending are asked to bring lawn chairs.