Eric Vance Phillips

Eric Vance Phillips, 65, of Newton, NC passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Caromont Regional Medical Center. Born May 21, 1960, he was the son of the late James Edward Phillips and Nancy Kirby Phillips.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Monica Long Phillips of the home; his children: Kirby (Jake) Orr of Maggie Valley, NC, Baker Phillips of Boone, NC, and Jett Phillips of Hickory, NC; his sisters: Jan Phillips, Kristy Johnston (Jeff), and Blair Phillips of Mount Pleasant, SC, and his brother Jason Phillips (Beth) of Matthews, NC. He is also survived by grandsons, Hayden and Bentley, and many treasured lifelong friends.

He was most recently employed by Woda Cooper as a project manager. He also worked with Kearey Builders and Parker General Contractors on various projects in Western North Carolina. Previously, he was a Senior Project Manager with Atriax PLLC where he oversaw projects on United States Air Force bases in Okinawa, Japan, Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Georgia. Besides being with his family, Eric was happiest when he was casting a line into mountain streams or tidal waters, hiking pristine trails, or embracing one of his many hobbies like bird watching, photography, throwing darts with his team, or listening to live music. He cherished his friendships with lifelong mates and was a solid and faithful guy to all who loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Edward Phillips and Nancy Kirby Phillips. 

A memorial service will be conducted on October 11, 2025 at 10a.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home. His siblings will host a Celebration of Life on October 11 from 1p.m. to 3 p.m. at City Walk Brewing in downtown Hickory and invite his friends to come and share a toast in his memory.

Memorials may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or the Mountains to Sea Trail.

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memorial Wall at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The Phillips family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Newton 828-464-1555.