Mr. Phillip D. King

UTICA - Mr. Phillip D. King, age 68, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 2, 2019 at Rome Memorial Hospital and is awaiting the Resurrection. Born in Montgomery, Alabama on January 24, 1950, Phillip was the son of the late Thomas and Murtle (Morgan) King-Evans. He attended Corning Community College where he earned an Associate degree. Phillip was a proud career veteran of the United States Air Force where he honorably served from 1974-1993, including 2 tours of duty in Turkey and Hawaii and ultimately held the position of Information Management Specialist. During his military career, he received numerous Commendations and Service Medals. On June 19, 1971 he married the former Mary Wood with whom he shared 15 years prior to her passing on March 5, 1987. They were a fun-loving couple who enjoyed each other’s company. Mary was a young woman when she passed away, and Phillip was left to raise their three young children, which he did with love and dedication. Phillip worked at Griffiss Air Force Base as a Technical Sergeant, and as a Major during his later years, until his final discharge from service. He also held a position with the Rome City School District as a Teacher’s Assistant. He was a caring man who made a difference to students, and to the cherished children. In all his roles, Phil was kind and generous. He was a great listener and would humbly share his wisdom. He was down-to-earth, outgoing, and blessed with intelligence that he shared on many levels. People were important to him and he offered his time if anyone needed help. He was non-judgmental and embraced the fact that all were equal in this divisive world. He was a meticulous man in all aspects, and even when he was bargain hunting, he managed to seek out the most satisfactory and reasonably priced items. He enjoyed gardening, growing flowers, and planting shrubbery while maintaining a house and making it a home. For Phillip, his primary concern was for his children, and he was very involved with their activities wishing only the best for them. His children felt that he succeeded at being a wonderful father and a source of strength and inspiration for them. The multiple homes in which they lived in throughout the years included the amenities of backyard pools and a basketball half court. As a single dad, Phil found it pleasurable to grill dinners all year round. His favorite pastimes were bedtime, followed by a good meal. Phillip was a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Phillip is survived by his children and their loved ones, Marc and Tamara King, Theresa King, and Brian King; grandchildren, Myles King, and Nicole King; great-grandson, Jordan Stein; and brothers, Doug King, and Mike Evans. He also leaves several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, and his dear friend Jean Nowicki and her sons Kevin, Steve, and Jason Nowicki. The family wishes to thank the wonderful friends who have been present with a compassionate heart during his untimely passing. A Memorial Service which will be held at a date and time to be determined.

Mr. Phillip D. King

January 24, 1950 - January 2, 2019