William R. Phillips III

William “Spodie”, “Billy Mo”, “Billy”, “Daddy”, “PaPaw”, “Pop-Pop” Robertson Phillips III, of South Bend, transitioned in his home May 2, 2021, at the age of 71.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William II and Robbie Lee Clark Phillips; a brother, Ronald; and special friends: James Coleman aka “Mun”, “Creek”, Eugene Harris aka “Bates”, and Thomas McFerren aka “Cadillac”.

Billy leaves to cherish his memory, the love of his life, his wife, Kathaleen (Collins) Phillips; Children: Atanya Collins, Louisville, KY, Antyonette Phillips, Angelica (Gerald Jr.) Carter, Indianapolis, Indiana, Adrian (Nichole) Phillips, Mishawaka, Indiana; grandchildren: Jessica, Onjalique, Parnell, Pa’Trice, Tayah, Gerald III, Indianapolis, Indiana, Ciera, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Tyrin, Louisville Kentucky, Adriauna, North Point, North Carolina, Tiomba, Kansas City, Missouri; great-grandchildren: Clifton, Aria, Donald, Ozias, Naszier, Anthony, ZaRiah, Xander, El’Shawn, Za’Nyiah, Zayla, Londyn; siblings: Eugene Phillips, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Gwendolyn (John Parker) Phillips Williams, South Bend, Indiana, Jeffery (Regina) Phillips, Grand Prairie, Texas, Bonita Phillips Pruitt, Newnan, Georgia, and Elaine Phillips Donaldson, Jonesboro, Georgia; and a host of relatives and friends that knew and loved him.

Billy moved to South Bend in 1952, from Dallas, Texas, with his family. He graduated from Washington High School in 1968, where he excelled in football.

Billy joined the United States Marines in March 1971, where he became an Auto Mechanic, A/C Maintenance Technician, and Ground Support Equipment Technician for which he was awarded a Good Conduct Medal. Billy was later appointed to the rank of Sargent in September 1974.

Billy worked most of his life as a Skilled Laborer and Forklift Operator; he also had Manufacturing and C&C skills.

Billy was a Lakeside Alum and took pride in his community. He was a part of a group called The Entertainers who were instrumental in rebuilding the Lakeside. The Entertainers expressed the need for the LaSalle Park Community Center. He never met a stranger and if he considered you family or friend, you gained his affection for life. Billy was a LOVING Husband, Father, PaPaw, and Pop-Pop. Billy was famous for his BBQ sauce and his fried turkeys. He had a smile that could change the mood of the room. The same smile caused you to be a friend, and also got him into trouble. Billy was a passionate Notre Dame fan, cheering them on from the comfort of his home. Billy was an encouragement and motivator to others, sharing his Love, Wisdom, and Wit to every captive ear. Billy will be missed by all that Loved and knew him. Rest Well, My Love.

The services will be live-streamed via Zoom using Meeting I.D. (574) 282-2477. 

*At the request of the family, those in attendance are asked to wear a mask.*

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