Danny C. Phillips (77) of Gays

Danny C. Phillips, 77, of Gays, IL, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at home.

No services will be held, upon Danny’s request. Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham, IL, is assisting the family. Memorials may be made to his daughter Dena Willis. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here.

Danny was born on October 13, 1946 in Mattoon, IL, the son of Donald and Daisy (Kinneman) Phillips. It is very difficult to express just the kind of impact Danny had on so many. He had a very well-lived life with much to be proud of. The love he showed others, especially his family, was incredible. Danny mostly went by Pap, PapPaw, and Pappy especially to his great-grandchildren. PapPaw’s house was one full of snacks, toys, and the never ending “yes.” Danny was a kind and generous man. He would tell it to you straight and keep you on your toes. Danny was a jokester and storyteller. He knew how to make you laugh until your side hurt. Danny was a proud Vietnam Veteran. He was an army man of the 9th Infantry Division. Danny patrolled deep into enemy-held territory as a long-range reconnaissance patrolman. He received 3 ACM Medals and 1 ACM Medal for Valor. He was drafted and served from 1966-1967. He fought to protect his brothers next to him, as well as the freedom and safety for those back home. Danny was a hero. Danny was an outdoorsman, builder, and hard worker. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and looking through car lots. He never saw something he couldn’t build or fix. Even after retiring as a machinist from General Electric he stayed busy working on projects around his home. Near the end he was still discussing his next work in progress. Danny was an incredibly caring family man. He cared for and loved his first wife Vicky. He worked hard to be the best husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be deeply missed by the many that loved him. There will be a cowboy boot sized hole in all of our hearts until we meet again.

Danny is survived by his immediate family, daughter, Dena Willis; granddaughters, Danielle and Taylor Willis; great-grandchildren, Gabriella, Tayte, Jaxtyn, Francisco, and Aiden; wife, Sandra Phillips; sisters, Deanna Brockett and Debrah Reed; brother-in-law, Gary Reed; and close friend, Faron McClain. He was survived by several extended family members, their spouses and children.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Vicky Phillips; father, Donald; mother, Daisy; brother, Tate; grandmother, Taylor Spencer; step-brother, Harley and his spouse Judy; and great-nephew, Geoffery Ward. He had plenty of family welcoming him home to rest.