Jerome R. Phillips

Jerome “Jerry” Richard Phillips, 82, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026. A master carpenter by trade and an avid pilot in his younger days, Jerry was a man who was always working on a project, whether building for others or tinkering in his own garage.

Jerry proudly served his country as a veteran of the U.S. Army. Beyond his professional and military life, he was a man of simple pleasures and deep loyalties. He found great joy in fishing and was a fixture at the table every Saturday for poker games with his family and friends. Above all else, he cherished the time spent with those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, and his stepson, Steven.

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife of 32 years, Barbara; his daughter, Christine (Chad); his son, Scott; and his stepsons, Ken (Laurie), Doug (Stacia), Gary (Michelle), and Greg (Tammy). He also leaves behind his dear roommates, Ron, Anthony, and Dee, as well as a legacy of many grandchildren: Kyle (Alexis), Tim (Crystal), Tiffany (John), Hannah (David), Ryan, Nick, Alex (Briana), Hailey, Shannon (Ryan), Jace, Trent and great-grandchildren: Carson, Lenna, Francesca, Tristan, Collin, Trinity, Caylee, and Oliver.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at the University of Minnesota Medical Center - East Bank for their exceptional care and compassion during his final days.

A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m., Friday, February 6, 2026 at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake.  The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Officiating Jeff Naegelen of Alliance Church of the Valley.