Garth Vaughn Phillips

Garth Vaughn Phillips was born on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 1938 in Ogdensburg, New York.  He moved to North Carolina while in high school and then to Ohio where he earned his undergraduate degree from Kent State University in 1960. Upon graduation he joined the U.S. Navy and attended Officer Candidate School. His plan was to complete a 3-year obligation and then find a civilian job. However, he spent the next 20 years in the Navy as a Supply Officer, retiring in 1980 as a Commander. Upon his first retirement he went to work for Hughes Aircraft Company in Procurement Management. It was during this time that he obtained his masters degree in Systems Management from the University of Southern California. Garth subsequently spent 3 years as a Mortgage Broker and then later as Vice President of  a start-up company that provided historical security pricing for probate purposes. He retired again in 2003.

Garth was an active member of the Los Altos United Methodist Church for many years.  He served in numerous leadership and service roles and is beloved by his congregation.

Garth joined the Downtown Long Beach Lion's Club in 2004.  He was an integral member and served as their  President and chairman of many important committees in service to his community. He was presented the Melvin Jones Fellow award for humanitarian services.

Garth passed away peacefully on Veteran's Day, November 11, 2023 just 2 weeks before his 85th birthday. Garth lived in Cypress, CA since 1993 and is survived by his wife, Victoria Ann (Lucachick) Phillips.  Garth is also survived by 6 grown children, 9 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Garth was a loving husband and wonderful father.  He was a master storyteller and could entertain an eager audience with memorized recitations from Romeo and Juliet, Gunga Din, and other charming prose to the delight of his many children and grandchildren.  Garth was a true officer and a gentleman.  He lived an honorable life  demonstrated by the "fruits of the spirit" that were so evident in him. He was gentle and kind, an excellent listener, and always quick to lend a helping hand.  He will be deeply missed by his family and community.