The Greene Giving community mourns the loss of George “Ed” Phillips, a beloved and inspiring member of our board, who passed away on October 20, 2024. Ed’s life was a testament to hard work, resilience, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in his community.
Ed Phillips’ roots in Beavercreek Township run deep. Ed and his family had moved to the area when Ed was in the seventh grade, and he quickly made his mark, excelling in sports and even operating a bulldozer.His parents, Grace and Franklin “Frank” Phillips, built a family business, soon to be the Phillips Companies, in gravel and sand, which his two older brothers, Don and Dick, supported after serving in World War II. Despite facing polio as a child, Ed pursued his dream of attending college, ultimately earning a spot on the Bowling Green State University football team. There, he formed lifelong friendships and ignited a friendly debate with Jack Gayheart, another former board member of Greene Giving, over who had the best career in the Mid-American Conference. Following Bowling Green, he returned to Beavercreek to join the family business.
Ed’s life was defined by enduring partnerships—none more significant than his 64-year marriage to Diane. Together, they raised a family rooted in love and values, including their children Brad (Patti), Larry (Sheila), Matt (Patti), and Becca (Bill), as well as cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ed’s pride in his family was unparalleled, and he dedicated himself to ensuring that the Phillips Companies could pass seamlessly to the next generation.
Ed and Diane’s shared blessings inspired them to give back. Active members of Peace Lutheran Church for over 60 years, they exemplified faith in action. While serving on the board of Greene County Community Improvement Corporation(CIC) in 2001, he joined in CIC granting $5,000 to establish the Greene County Community Foundation (Greene Giving), and soon after, he and Diane established with Greene Giving the Diane and George Edwin Phillips Fund, a lasting testament to their commitment to the community. Ed joined the original Board of Directors of Greene Giving, serving faithfully until his passing.
Ed’s contributions to the community did not go unnoticed. He and Diane were honored with numerous accolades over the years, including the prestigious Ervin J. Nutter Award in 2006 for lifetime achievement in service to Greene County. Yet, among these recognitions, Ed regarded his Masonic 33rd Degree—an honor conferred for outstanding service in Scottish Rite Freemasonry—as one of his greatest honors.
Ed Phillips was a model—a man whose generosity and vision continue to shape the Greene County community. His legacy is one of kindness, commitment, and enduring impact, truly an example of how one person can truly leave the world a better place.
