Samuel Randall Phillips, III's Obituary
Samuel Randall “Foxy” Phillips III, age 62, passed away Friday, March 27, 2015 at the North Florida Regional Hospital in Gainesville, Florida after an extended illness. Randy was born and raised in Wildwood, Florida where he was a longtime member of the Wildwood United Methodist Church. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of South Florida and a Master of Science Degree in Child Care Administration from Nova University.
Randy’s career was spent with Jack and Ruth Eckerd’s Foundation, known as the Eckerd Youth Alternatives Program. He was the Director of Camp E-Kel-Etu located in the Ocala National Forest for almost 30 years. This was a Therapeutic Wilderness Camp Program for boys ranging in ages of 7 through 17 who were considered “at risk” for success. It strived to offer alternatives to help them turn their lives into successful lives, rather than lives of crime and unhappy futures.
Randy had a deep love and compassion for his fellow man. He touched and changed countless lives during his career and in his private life. He and his wife, Brenda, were giving and compassionate in their home, by being foster parents to many children for several years.
After thirty years of loyal service with the Eckerd Foundation, he retired. After his retirement, he and Brenda opened Foxy’s Convenience Store and Deli (named for his childhood nickname) in Johnson, Florida. This is where he made many friends and acquaintances and continued to make a difference in people’s lives. During his life, he tried to leave his mark and make a positive impact.
Randy was a Mason, and a member of the Morning Star Lodge in Silver Springs. He was also past president of the East Marion County Chamber of Commerce. He was on the ARC Board of Directors in Marion County for several years. He attended Woodlawn Baptist Church in the Johnson, FL community.
Those closest to him knew him as a man who loved life, and describe him as caring, funny, compassionate, and smart. He enjoyed cooking, especially outdoors. He had a reputation as being a “Master” of the barbeque and won several Barbeque contests. He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and spending time on the water, but his love for Coke memorabilia was his favorite hobby.
He was a dedicated family man. He is survived by his loving wife of 31 years – Brenda; Sons – Lance (Gayla) Douglas of Geneva, FL; and Joshua Phillips of Interlachen, FL; Daughter – Jennifer (Jimmy) Phillips Kirby of Lyons, GA; Sisters – Sandra Phillips Stormant of Woodstock, GA; and Ann Phillips Boone of St. Augustine, FL; and 7 adored Grandchildren – Shea, Shannon, Blake, Brandon, Caden, Austin, and Lexi. His grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life. He is survived by several nieces and nephews, and he was a devoted uncle to them.
A memorial service celebrating his life is planned for 11:00 A.M. Friday – April 3, 2015 at the Wings of Faith 5066 SE 64th Avenue Road, Ocala, FL 34472 with Rev. L. D. Osteen serving as Officiant. Contributions can be made in Randy’s loving memory to ARC of Marion County, one of Randy’s favorite organizations.
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