FORT MILL, SOUTH CAROLINA - Ron T. Phillips, 81, a devoted husband, cherished father, proud grandfather, and steadfast servant of God, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on May 21, 2026, following a sudden diagnosis of terminal cancer. Born on February 26, 1945, Ron dedicated his life to three enduring pillars: his faith, his family, and fellowship with all who crossed his path. 

Legacy & Ministry Ron’s life was defined by his radical devotion to ministry, a calling he walked out faithfully for over seven decades. For many years, he served lovingly as a pastor. With humility and grace he shepherded communities in South Miami, Tallahassee, Lexington (KY), Raleigh, and Charlotte. His deepest joy was raising up disciples to walk in the fullness of the revelation of the love of God. His closest friend was the Holy Spirit who was his daily Helper.

 In his later years, he served as an elder and connect group pastor at Morningstar Fellowship in Fort Mill, South Carolina. His wisdom, spiritual fathering, and deep love for the scriptures left a lasting mark on the congregation, as well as the way he reflected the love of God to everyone he met. His hugs and kisses were memorable and will be deeply missed.

 Those who knew Ron will remember him as a man who lived out the Gospel not just in words, but in action. He loved gathering people together, sharing stories, and offering a listening ear or a word of encouragement. He ran his race with endurance, and though his passing was sudden, his family takes comfort in knowing he has stepped into his eternal reward. They know he was greeted joyfully by his mother, father, brothers, and many friends that have gone before him. Ron lived with an awareness and deep longing to be with his Lord and Savior in Glory.

 Family: Ron’s greatest joy and deepest legacy was his family. He was the deeply devoted husband to his wife, Deedee, for 52 beautiful years, building a life together rooted in unconditional love and shared purpose. Some of his favorite memories were vacationing with his family at Topsail Island, Bald Head Island, and the Blue Ridge Mountains. He loved time with his children and grandchildren more than anything. 

He is survived by his wife and their five children, who carry on his legacy of faith across the country: Melanie Phillips of Chester, SC. Shannon Casteel (Blake) of Kona, HI. Melissa Helser (Jonathan) of Sophia, NC. Christopher Phillips of High Point, NC. Bradley Phillips (Kassie) of Lancaster, SC. 

Ron was also the proud and doting grandfather to 19 grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to his life and whom he loved fiercely. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Roberts.

 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.”- II Timothy 4:7-8, NKJV

SERVICE SCHEDULE Private Family ServicesPrivate Funeral ServiceFriday, June 5, 2026 | 1:00 PM Palmetto Funeral Home 2049 Carolina Place, Fort Mill, SC Private Family Burial Friday, June 5, 2026 | 3:00 PM Grandview Memorial Park 620 S Cherry Rd, Rock Hill, SC Public Memorial Service Public Celebration of Life Sunday, June 7, 2026 | 3:00 PM Morningstar Fellowship Church375 Star Light Dr, Fort Mill, SC All friends, congregation members, and those whose lives were touched by Ron’s ministry are warmly invited to attend the public memorial service. Services in the care of: Palmetto Funeral Home, Fort Mill, SC. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that memorials be made to Hydrating Humanity to help build a well in Africa in honor of Ron’s memory. You can make donations to: https://www.hydratinghumanity.org/ronphillips