Gary Lee “Smokey” Phillips passed away Saturday, Jan. 22. Gary was born in Jacksboro on Sept. 18, 1945, to Lowell Pool Phillips and Mildee (Lee) Phillips.

Gary graduated from Jacksboro High School and attended Ranger College before beginning his lifelong career at the Texas Department of Transportation. He retired after nearly 50 years at TXDOT, serving as maintenance foreman in every area of Tarrant County as well as Cleburne, Decatur and Jacksboro.

Gary is survived by his wife of 38 years, Darlene; his only child, Christen Browning, her husband Robert and their daughter Ryen; stepdaughter Lori Commander, her husband Mike, their children Jacob, Megan, and granddaughter Libby; stepson Brent Prather and his children, Josh, Taylor and Makayla; sister Lou Ann Phillips and husband Keith Sharp; sister Lana Osteen and husband, Mitchel; and brother Bruce Phillips.

Gary loved sports and the outdoors. For years Gary was involved in coaching girl softball teams. Gary was devoted to his family and friends, always ready to lend a helping hand. He also loved to laugh and no one was better at practical jokes.

Gary always said one thing at every family gathering. He probably said it at dinners with friends and casual encounters at a coffee shop. He always said “I’m glad you got to see me.” We were always glad to see him. In fact, we were blessed every time we saw him and we all treasure many cherished memories.

There will be a celebration of life service for Gary at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 12 at Willow Park Baptist Church, 129 S Ranch House Rd, Willow Park TX 76008.