Egbert Ward “E.W.” Phillips – (89) – of 2836 State Route 244, Belmont, NY died unexpectedly Saturday evening (February 20, 2021) at his home.

Born in the Town of Ward on August 17, 1931, he was the son of Egbert & Lillian (Austin) Phillips.

E.W. grew up in the Phillips Creek & Alfred area and was a graduate of Alfred-Almond Central School (class of 1948).  He later attended Alfred State College.

In 1950, E.W. enlisted in the United States Army, and served his country during the Korean Conflict.  He served 19 months in Korea and was stationed in Japan for about a year.  He was honorably discharged in 1953.

Following his honorable discharge, E.W. worked as a “Jack of All Trades”, including truck driver, cabinet maker, plumber and general farming.  For over 30 years, he was employed at the Erie Railroad, Erie-Lackawanna Railroad, Delaware & Hudson (D & H) Railroad, NYS&W Railroad and Canadian Pacific Railroad, retiring in 1993 as an engineer.

E.W. enjoyed coin collecting & stamp collecting and had been a member of the Dansville Moose Lodge and the Canisteo American Legion.

He was married in 1954 to the former Viola Simons who died in 2007.  He was also preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Gene Adelle Phillips and Eloise Mae Draggett.

Surviving are his children, Wanda (Tom) Perry of Phoenix, AZ, Cindy (Paul) Coleman of Almond, Dale (Robin Davis) Phillips of the Town of Ward, Troy (Andrea) Phillips of the Town of Ward and Donna (Bill Huber) Phillips of Dansville; 12 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; several nieces & nephews.

At E.W.’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. 

E.W.’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to either the Almond Rescue Squad or to the Belmont Rescue Squad.