Willie Phillips

Willie L. Phillips, Sr., 78, of Rock Island, Illinois, died Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Celebrate Senior Living of Moline.

Services to celebrate Willie’s life will be announced at a later date. Cremation will take place at Trimble Crematory, Moline, under the direction of Trimble Funeral Home.

Born on March 11, 1947, in Jonestown, Mississippi, Willie was the son of Houston and Ladora Phillips. A self-taught mechanic with a natural gift for working with his hands. His work ethic and determination led him to various positions, including employment at John Deere and Rock Island Lines.

Willie was a man of deep faith and was a member of Gaines Chapel AME Church in East Moline. He had a zest for life and a love for simple joys—whether it was cooking a delicious meal, casting a line while fishing, testing his luck on horse races or scratch-off lottery tickets, or simply being in the company of his family. He especially cherished his time with his grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy.

Willie is survived by five children, Melissa Phillips, Tony Phillips, Shawnte Vallejo, Ranesha Vallejo, and D’Mico Vallejo, and a host of grandchildren and other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and three children, Willie Phillips, Jr., Michael Phillips, and Pattie Phillips.

The family invites friends to share stories and condolences at TrimbleFuneralHomes.com.