David Leroy Phillips

Born June 24, 1946, in New Castle Pennsylvania, to Ralph L. and Mary Ellen (Gettings) Phillips. Some of Dave’s fondest childhood memories were spending time with his grandparents. When he was 7 years old, he traveled with them to Central Florida. At that young age he knew he wanted to live there someday.

In his teenage days, while attending New Castle High school, he spent 3 summers as a lifeguard at Cascade Park. Following in his father’s footsteps, he learned the trade of welding and worked alongside his father at Phillips Welding. This afforded him to purchase his very first new car; a burgundy, 1965 Pontiac GTO Convertible. That started his love of cars.

Dave then joined the U.S. Navy. Serving in The Philippines and Vietnam. He demonstrated dedication during his service, earning respect and admiration. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.

Not too long after returning home to New Castle, he met and married Dixie Lee Bunney, on June 13, 1972. They were blessed with two daughters. As a young family, in 1975, they visited family in Florida. It was the same area he had visited with his grandparents. This is when he shared with Dixie, he had wanted to live in Florida ever since he was 7 years old. In 1977, they moved to Central Florida fulfilling that dream!

Dave continued in the welding trade; working at Pulllman Standard, Syro Steel, Gator Dock & Marine, and Auto Train, until 1984. Deciding to make a career change, he became an Orange County Correction Officer. He served his community for 22 years.

Retiring in 2006, he had more time to continue doing what he loved best. He always enjoyed time his family, swimming, soaking in his hot tub, going to car shows, dancing, singing to 50’s/60’s music, his guns, going on cruises, visiting amusement parks, driving his Toyota Tundra and his Cam-Am motorcycle, and of course, rooting for his Pittsburgh Steelers. He was a member of the American Legion. He was patriotic and loved his country.

The last 8 years of Dave’s life was confined to his bed and wheelchair. He filled those days, watching his favorite tv shows, loving on his 5 pound Yorkie, Bella, spending time with his family, going out to dinner and movies, get togethers for family celebrations, and best of all being waited on! He had a great memory and good sense of humor. He love telling jokes and stories of the good old days.

Above all Dave was a very proud family man! He loved his wife, daughters and his grandchildren. He had a special relationship and nickname, for each of them.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Lori Lynne Fornicola.

He is survived and greatly missed by his wife of 51 years, Dixie, his daughter; Leann Lee Combs, son-in-law Marsh Combs, two brothers; William and Ralph, and five grandchildren; DJ, Courtenay, and Kylee Ferguson, Courtlyn Combs Jolley, her husband, Dr Nicholas Jolley, and (his baby’s baby) Colby Combs, as well as many other family and friends.

He is now walking and dancing in Heaven!

And most certainly getting a famous Lori hug!

Celebration Life will be held on Sunday, October 8th at the American Legion Post 183, in Fern Park, FL

Door will open at 2pm

We will begin the Celebration of Life Ceremony at 2:30, followed by reminiscing and refreshments. All are welcome.

On Monday, October 9th, he will be laid to rest at 10am in the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery (lane A) with honor guards present from the US Navy and Orange County Corrections.