John "Freddie" Phillips

John “Freddie” Phillips, age 80, passed away on February 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Freddie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, veteran, and friend whose warmth, humor, and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Freddie was born on October 14, 1945. He was the son of Jim and Connie Phillips, both of whom preceded him in death. He graduated from Karns High School in 1964 and went on to serve his country proudly as a member of the United States Navy Seabees during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Freddie built a long and respected career with the Tennessee Valley Authority before retiring. Never one to sit still, he and his brother Wendell also owned and operated their own landscape design business, where he combined hard work with creativity and a genuine enjoyment of working with people. Freddie believed deeply in community and was never afraid to step up and get involved. Over the years, he contributed his time and energy to many local efforts, including the Karns Community Fair, neighborhood associations, Knoxville Night Time, and countless other community activities. He was known for bringing people together and for making every gathering feel welcoming and lively. He loved music (especially Doo Wop), singing, and dancing, and he never missed an opportunity to laugh, joke, and “cut up” with friends and family. Freddie enjoyed hosting parties, cheering on Tennessee Volunteers football, and making friends wherever he went. He especially cherished traveling adventures with his beloved wife, Janet, and looked forward each year to their winters spent in Mexico. Above all, Freddie loved his family deeply and took great joy in time spent together. Family and friends could always count on his kindness, compassion, loyalty, and generous spirit. Freddie is survived by his wife, Janet Phillips; his daughters, Lauren Lukkarila (Anneliese Singh) and Shea Bane (Kenny Bane); his stepdaughter, Jennifer Goins (Mike Goins); and his grandchildren, Michael (“Mikey”) Goins, Elijah Bane, Elizabeth (“Ellie”) Goins, Caz Bane, and Rett Bane. He was preceded in death by his stepson, Josh Rogers (Terri Ketterman). Freddie is also survived by his brothers, Wendell Phillips (Rosa), Gary Phillips (Gaye), Mike Phillips (Debbie), and Patrick Phillips (Cynthia), along with their wives and children, all of whom he loved dearly. Freddie will be remembered as someone who was always happy to see family and friends, someone who lived fully, laughed often, and made people feel at home wherever he was. His presence filled rooms with energy and joy, and his memory will continue to live on in the many lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages friends to honor Freddie’s memory by spending time with loved ones, lending a hand in their community, and living with the same generosity and enthusiasm that he showed every day of his life.

Tributes

John "Freddie" Phillips

October 14, 1945 - February 5, 2026