Joseph "Joe" Patrick Phillips

Joseph Phillips 63, of Navarre, Florida, passed just the way he lived his life—on his own terms and surrounded by his family.

Joe was born on April 7, 1961, in Amarillo, Texas, to James and Doris Phillips. As the son of an Air Force serviceman and part of a large family, Joe’s early years were spent travelling the world to places like England, New Jersey, and Turkey before finally settling in Fort Walton Beach in 1968.

Growing up in a family with seven siblings—Ronny, Karen, Jim, Jon, Sarah, Jason, and Jeff—Joe was always surrounded by love and laughter. Joe wasn’t one to wait around for adventure. He left school early and joined the Army. His heart was always with his family, so he returned home to Florida and eventually relocated with them to Texas, where he met the love of his life, Linda Ketner. He and Linda returned to his home in Florida in 1994 where they stayed to raise their children Laci and Jon.

Joe was one of the most interesting men in the world. He was not only adventurous but also one of the smartest people you’d ever meet. He was a flooring installer, electrician, salesmen, professional diver and even gold miner. Joe was a lifelong musician and an unparalleled guitarist. His skill and creativity led to touring and playing with numerous bands over the years.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Doris, and his brothers Ron, Jim, and Jason. He is survived by his son, Jon & Victoria Phillips; his daughter, Laci Peterson; and his beloved grandchildren, Haley, Russel, Caleb, and Sophie. Joe is also survived by his remaining siblings, Karen, Jon, Sarah, and Jeff, along with scores of nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and nephews who will forever remember his tales of adventure.

Joe was an amazing father who taught his children to leave this world better than they found it. He will be remembered for his unending curiosity, his kindness, love of animals, his musical talent, his ability to light up a room, and his belief in the possible. But most of all, he will be remembered for the unyielding love he had for his family.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, 28 October 2024, at 1:00 pm at Heritage Gardens Funeral Home, Cemetery, & Crematory, located at 2201 Partin Dr N, Niceville, FL 32578. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you do what Joe would do: tell someone close to you how much you love them. Hold them close. And be excellent to one another.

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