Lt Col Michael Allen Phillips, United States Air Force (Retired), passed away March 5, 2010 at the age of 43 following a valiant battle with cancer. Today we are rejoicing in the knowledge that he is forever at home with the Savior he faithfully served and proclaimed. On June 21, 1992 he married Deanna Phillips, who survives him. Together, for more than 17 years, they experienced the changing scenes of life in the joyous and fruitful companionship, which the Lord had entrusted to them. Surviving along with Deanna is their beautiful daughter Elizabeth, age 12, who is a gift from the Lord. Mike was born in Elyria, Ohio to Michael and Linda Phillips. He graduated from Elyria High School in 1984 and earned a Physics Degree from Akron University. His passion for flying led to his commission in the USAF in 1990. Mike proudly served as a Navigator, B-1B Weapons Systems Officer, Director of Operations with the 612th Combat Plans Squadron, and with Air Force Special Operations Command. He was a graduate of the USAF Weapons School, B-1 Division is a decorated veteran of many combat operations throughout the Middle East. Mike was a loving husband, father, and protector. He loved his wife and daughter fully. He had many interests to include museums, parks, Star Wars, duck races with Elizabeth, hiking, monkeys, astronomy, and rainy days. His gifts include teaching, writing, creative play, and research. His passions were his family, his Lord, and flying. He is also survived by his mother Linda Phillips, grandmother Ruby Phillips, his uncle William Phillips, all residing in Elyria, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his father, Michael Phillips and grandfather, Billie Phillips. He is also remembered and loved by a host of other family and friends including Frank and Linda Lewis, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Nancie Lewis, his sister-in-law, Scott and Kathryn Lewis, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Rob and Amy Springs, his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, and his beloved nieces, Madissen and Faith, and treasured nephews, Conner and Aiden, as well as numerous other brothers and sisters in the USAF and in Christ. Visitation will be at Turrentine Jackson Morrow in McKinney, Texas Monday night, March 8, 2010 from 5:00 - 7:00 pm. Services will be at First Baptist Church of McKinney, Texas Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at 2:30 pm with graveside to follow at Pecan Grove Historic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers or plants donations may be made to: - A fund for their daughter Elizabeth. Details will be posted on their web log at http://inhishandandholdingontightly.blogspot.com/. - Jungle Aviation and Radio Service (JAARS) providing technical support and services to Wycliffe Bible Translators & SIL International, for Bible translation around the world. Donate on-line at www.JAARS.org, or send to JAARS, Inc., PO Box 248, Waxhaw, NC 28173. - Feed The Children at www.feedthechildren.org Mike’s family takes this occasion to thank their many friends, family, and GIACT for the love, prayers, support, and kindnesses which have been given throughout this journey. You are indeed the most meaningful gifts of life. “And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God” Micah 6:8