On September 15, 2019, Phillip George Claborn, 68, passed away in the comfort of his home surrounded by family in Garland, Texas, ending his five year battle with cancer. He was born on January 11, 1951 to Neal and Zella Mae Claborn in Oklahoma City. Phil grew up dedicated to his family.  He was raised in the Baptist church and carried a strong faith which guided him throughout his life. His faith was quiet, but could easily be seen in the example he set forth to those around him.  As Phil grew up, he was a strong student and an exceptional athlete, playing baseball, basketball, track, and football. While attending Putnam City High School, he found his first “Sweetheart”, a red 1967 GTO.  He found his lifelong sweetheart while leading his team on the field as quarterback; he stumbled over a cheerleader and they both fell to the ground. Phil stopped to help her up, they started dating and eventually married, creating a beautiful life together. Phil graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma.  Always a hard worker, he began his career at Western Paper Company in the warehouse, later becoming the youngest manager in company history.  In the 27 years he was with International Paper, Phil developed lasting relationships, many of which continue to this day. In 1998, he decided to venture out on his own, starting Integrated Delivery and Logistics or “IDL”, a successful small business that continues today with his son Kyle at the helm. 

Phil’s greatest passion was his family and friends, especially his sons.  He was an excellent mentor, coaching many teams, focusing on developing the players, not the wins.  Phil readily volunteered at the schools, in the community and at the church, always remaining selfless.  He was ready for any project; it wasn’t about the task being done, it was about the quality time spent with others.  Phil was delighted when each son married, gaining three amazing daughters. His devotion continued in the lives of his four grandchildren.  He loved going to their games, dance recitals, school events, projects, and treasured anytime they wanted to play with Papa. While spending time outside with family and friends at the lake, the beach, the mountains, or even the backyard, Phil felt a great sense of joy and contentment.  In every aspect of his life, Phil’s sense of humor was evident, being one of his greatest attributes.  No matter the time, you could count on the “Lean, Mean, Fighting Machine” to improve your day.

Phil is survived by his wife of 47 years Jo Ann Claborn; three sons and their wives, Cory and Courtney, Kyle and Ashley, and Kevin and Sarah; his four grandchildren, Ella, Drew, Caleb and Kate; his brother, Robert and wife, Becky Claborn of Enid, Oklahoma; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and friends.  

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Monday, September 23, 2019 at Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church, 3901 North Star Road, Richardson, Texas 75082.  

The family is requesting donations be made to Austin Street Shelter, an organization that provides food and shelter for the homeless.  https://www.austinstreet.org/  or The American Cancer society. https://www.cancer.org.