Eugene "Gene" PHILLIPS Obituary

Oct 12, 1944 - Mar 12, 2026

Eugene "Gene" Phillips, 81, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, surrounded by his wife and daughters. He fought a valiant battle with cancer, far outliving medical predictions to spend more time with those he loved.

Born October 12, 1944, to Agatha and Hugh Phillips in Havre, MT, Gene was a proud Havre High graduate, excelling in academics and basketball. A lifelong learner and "math whiz," he earned degrees from Northern Montana College and the University of Montana, leading to his career as a dedicated teacher and coach.

In 1978, he married Judith Brunner. His career took their family from Havre to Billings, MT, and later they moved to Salem, OR. In retirement, Gene and Judi settled in Deer Park, WA, where he continued teaching and coaching in Spokane. Gene will be remembered for his love of golf, storytelling, jokes, and time spent with friends and family.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Judith; daughters, Jennifer (Tiffany) Pence, Michelle (John) Gersztyn, Kelsie Phillips, and Samantha (Greg Nickles) Phillips; six grandchildren; and his sister, Margaret Hayes. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Joe Phillips.

The family gives special thanks to Gene's brother-in-law, Mike Brunner, and the many friends who provided meal support and care.

Service: April 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM, St. Mary Presentation Church in Deer Park, WA. A reception will follow. To view and sign Gene's online guestbook, please visit www.lauerfuneral.com. Deer Park's Lauer Funeral Home.