Korean War Veteran and President of NEA RI Harlon R. Phillips Dies at 90

Korean War Veteran and President of NEA RI Harlon R. Phillips Dies at 90

Harlon R. Phillips, 90, a Smithfield resident since 1955, passed away Wednesday, February 23, 2022. He was the beloved husband of Josephine Phillips for 63 years before her passing in 2018. Harlon was born in Canton, TX the son of the late Archie and Annie Phillips.

Harlon was a graduate of Canton High School, North Texas University, URI, and did post-graduate work at Boston University. He was a veteran of the U.S. Naval Reserve, serving on active duty with the 6th Fleet during the Korean war. He was a teacher, department head and administrator in the Providence School system for many years and former principal of Ponaganset High. He was president of the family business, PAX Inc. and after retirement he was employed as a tax preparer with H&R Block.

He was active in youth services, civic and professional organizations. President of the RI Education Association, NEA, President of the former Providence Teachers Association, member of the RI and National Association of Secondary School Principals and member of the National Association of Teachers of Mathematics.

He and his wife enjoyed biking and ballroom dancing for many years. He was an avid golfer and proud of his “hole in one” at the Melody Hills Golf Club in Glocester, RI on
July 28, 1998.

He was the father of John Phillips, and Thomas Phillips and his wife Carrie. He was predeceased by his three brothers Kenneth, Wayne and Alvin Phillips as well as his sisters Dorothy Neal and Geneva Austin. He was the close friend and dance partner of Genevieve Fusco.

Funeral and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers donations to Meals on Wheels, 70 Bath Street, Providence, RI 02908, will be appreciated.