Joseph R. Phillips Jr.

Joseph R. Phillips Jr., 69, of Kelayres, passed away Wednesday morning at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Hazleton, he was the son of the Late Maurita (Mulligan) and Joseph R. Phillips Sr. 

Joe was a member of Holy Rosary R.C. Church, Hazleton, and a graduate of Bishop Hafey High School, class of 1974.

Prior to retiring, he was employed for many years in the local coal industry as a heavy equipment operator.

Joe was an avid Eagles football fan and drag racing enthusiast. He also loved spending time with his family outdoors, at the Bloomsburg Fair and Knoebels, and on vacation at Rehoboth Beach. A quiet, stable presence, Joe always went above and beyond to care for those he loved. He played a special part in the lives of many and was a cherished husband, dad, Gramps, Uncle Joe, Mr. P, Camper, and Big Joe.

Surviving are his wife of 48 years, Carol (Bednar) Phillips; daughter, Diane DellaVella and husband Mike, Wilmington DE; son, Joseph L. Phillips and wife, Amy, Bloomsburg; daughter, Jacqueline L. Phillips, Philadelphia; grandchildren, Jacob, Joseph, Jonathan, Beau, Abigail and Rosa; sister, Ann Davidick and husband, Bill, Florida; brothers, Thomas Phillips, Hazle Twp. and Edward Phillips, Florida; cousin, Henrietta Dudeck; and his beloved dogs, Dolley and Ruby.

His funeral will be held Tuesday, February 17. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. in Holy Rosary R.C. Church, Hazleton. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Calling hours are Monday, February 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Damiano Funeral Home Inc., McAdoo. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Gift of Life Donor Program at www.donors1.org. Organ donation saves tens of thousands of lives each year. If you have not already done so, please consider becoming an organ donor today. 

Condolences may be shared, and additional information is available at www.damianofhinc.com.

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