Kenneth James Phillips Sr.

Kenneth J. Phillips, Sr.

Compassion and Kindness – two words that describe his life.

Heaven is celebrating as Kenny Phillips was reunited with his beloved wife Penny and son George in HIS Kingdom on September 12, 2021. His compassion and kindness for others touched the lives of so many people throughout his life – the stories are endless. 

Born in 1937 in Gary Indiana, he moved as a small child to Newcomerstown, Ohio where he was a graduate of Newcomerstown High School.  His date of birth was July 3 – the eve of Independence Day which might explain his independent spirt.  As a life time entrepreneur, he developed multiple businesses during his career; a trait he has also passed on to his family.  First was Emerald Lanes bowling alley in Newcomerstown.  Later he entered the insurance business working with different companies which included relocating to Scottsdale, Arizona for a time.  He and his wife Penny ultimately settled in Canton and began the Phillips Insurance Agency.  They were also the founders of Hall of Fame Video which was at the dawn of the video rental industry.

Kenny was known by everyone as being one of the most caring and compassionate people they could meet.  His adult children often reminisce about how he always taught them to say “I love you” without hesitation and to carry on his compassionate nature.

He had a very quick-witted humor which was with him to the very end of his long 84-year life.  This humor continues with his family and most notably is reflected in his grandsons Kolby and Jimi.

Kenny was preceded in death by his forever 16-year-old son, George Phillips and beloved wife Penny as well as his parents Evelyn and George Phillips.

He is survived by Jim (Brenda) Phillips of Scottsdale, AZ; Judy (Willie) Jones of Canal Fulton, OH; Terry Thornsley of Canton, Ohio who was also his caretaker, and Michelle (Henry) Monti of Waveland, MS.  He also has grandchildren; Jessica, Jimi, Kaysea – grandpa’s “bulldog”, Henry, Kolby, Courtney; along with two great-grandsons; Gabriel and Milo. Kenny is also survived by his siblings; Rita (Ray) Armstrong, Tom (Faith) Phillips and Judy Larkin.   

A private family celebration of his life and legacy will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested that you make a gesture of compassion and kindness towards others in Kenny’s memory.

Waltner-SIMCHAK Funeral Home

Locally Owned Since 1917

330-455-0293

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