James “Jim” Richard Phillips, 69, died peacefully surrounded by family on January 6th, 2026. He was born and raised in Buffalo, NY and lived in Fort Montgomery, NY; Chester, NY; the Bronx, NY; and most recently for the past 10 years in Clermont, FL. He graduated from Father Baker Victory High School in Lackawanna, NY; Class of 1974. He then attended Canisius University and Ithica University.

Jim was a 47-year member of the Iron Workers. He started his career in Local #6 in Buffalo, NY and then transferred to Local #40 in New York City where he continued his career until his retirement in 2015. An experienced iron worker for over 40 years, he built a legacy on projects across New York City, including the new Yankee Stadium, Madison Square Garden, and the Freedom Tower. His commitment extended beyond iron working; he was one of the first on site at the World Trade Center on 9/11, assisting with vital rescue, recovery, and clean-up efforts.

Jim’s life revolved around his family, coaching his children's sports teams in Fort Montgomery and Chester, NY; “Baby sharing”, as Jim called it, his granddaughter Julia; and preparing for visits from his grandsons James and Sawyer. He loved spending time with his grandkids! Since retirement he spent many days cooking and delivering his freshly cooked meals to family and friends around the neighborhood.

Jim is predeceased by his son Randall J. Phillips; and father, Samuel W. Phillips. He is survived by his mother Rosemary Cogan Kelleher (Tom) of Wildwood, FL; son James Cogan Phillips and wife Kathryn of Clermont, FL; daughter Samantha Lynn McDougle and husband Jacob of Walpole, NH; his former wife and the mother of his children, Rhonda J. Tobin Phillips of Port St Lucie, FL; grandchildren, James and Sawyer McDougle of Walpole, NH; and Julia Phillips of Clermont, FL; and his partner Diana Tiberi. He is survived by his siblings Laura Wozniak (Bill) of Wildwood, FL; Sam Phillips (Lorrie) of Valparaiso, FL; Peggy Krall (Ron) of Templeton, CA; and Mary Liz Mazzanti (Tom) of Land O' Lakes, FL; as well as extended family and dear friends.

A private celebration of life will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Animal League (Central Florida Human Society) or New Beginnings. Jim touched the lives of many and will be truly missed by all. 

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