Bernie Edward Phillips

Mr. Bernie Edward Phillips, 74, of Mount Airy, passed away Wednesday morning, November 19, 2008. Mr. Phillips was born November 4, 1934, in Surry County, to the late Jesse Edward Benton and Katherine Sawyers Phillips. Bernie worked as an investigator for Retail Credit Company for 18 years and was co-owner and operator of Jones-Phillips Funeral Home for 15 years. He worked for WSYD for many years, serving as a DJ and, most recently, as sports and news director. Bernie also enjoyed driving the Mayberry Squad Car, giving tourists a tour of the Greater Mount Airy area. Mr. Phillips was a faithful member of Mount Carmel Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher for many years. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Josephine Louise "Jo" Atkins Phillips of the home; two daughters and sons-in-law, Louise and Ricky Sawyers and Kathy and Dale Mabe, all of Mount Airy; two sons and daughters-in-law, Edward and Janet Phillips of Mount Airy and Paul and Jennifer Phillips of Lillington; and three grandchildren, Amanda Sawyers of Mount Airy, Ben Phillips and Ryleigh Phillips, both of Lillington. In addition to his parents, Mr. Phillips was preceded in death by an infant brother. The funeral service will be held Friday, November 21, 2008, at 2:00 PM at Mount Carmel Baptist Church. The service will be conducted by Dr. James Joseph and the Rev. Flake Mason, and burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 7:00 to 9:00 at Mount Carmel Baptist Church. Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions can be made to Mount Carmel Baptist Church, 123 Mount Carmel Church Road, Mount Airy, NC 27030.