Terry Irvin Phillips, 81, passed away September 7, 2026, in Frisco, Texas. He was born in Pittsburg, Kansas, on March 1, 1945, to his loving parents Norval Irvin Phillips and Virginia Lee (Tucker) Phillips.
Terry graduated from Parsons Senior High School in 1963. He continued his education at Kansas State University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering, and later received his master’s degree also in Electrical Engineering, from The Ohio State University.
On August 20, 1966, Terry married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Jennifer Clare Ellis. Their marriage was the beginning of a beautiful journey together, filled with love, laughter, friendship, and countless cherished memories. After their marriage, Terry joined the United States Air Force in 1969 and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. The couple moved to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, where they began this chapter of their lives together and welcomed both of their daughters.
Following his military service, Terry enjoyed a successful career in telecommunications, including his work with the Department of Defense. He was intelligent, curious, and talented with technology, even building his own television.
Terry found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved to read and was continuously learning, whether it was work-related or simply for enjoyment. He loved watching movies, especially science fiction and action genres, and would frequently catch the latest movie with his family. A devoted football fan, he enthusiastically supported the Dallas Cowboys and his beloved Kansas State Wildcats.
Above all, Terry treasured his family. He loved spending time with those he held dear, especially his grandchildren, who brought him tremendous joy. The memories made together, whether during special occasions or simply enjoying their company, will forever be treasured.
Terry and his beloved wife shared nearly sixty years of marriage before her passing in March 2026. Their love and devotion to one another remained a defining part of his life, and the many years they shared together created a lifetime of precious memories.
Terry will be remembered for his love of family, his devotion to his work, his service to his country, and the warmth and joy he brought to the lives of those who knew and loved him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends and in the many cherished moments they shared together.
Terry is survived by his daughters, Holly Rudnick (Phil) of McKinney, Texas, and Amy Palomarez (Albert) of Edmond, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Alex Rudnick, Madison Rudnick, Andrew Palomarez, and Alissa Palomarez; and numerous extended family members and friends, who will miss him and cherish his memory.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents, and his beloved wife, Jennifer.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013. The service will also be live streamed at the following link: celebrationoflife.tv/blog/terry-irvin-phillips. After the service, the recorded live stream will be available for viewing at the same link location. Following the funeral, a procession will make its way to Ridgeview Memorial Park for a committal service with Military Funeral Honors.
The family will receive friends during a visitation on Saturday morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.