Larry Dean Phillips, 84, of Monticello, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 29, 2025.

Born on May 4, 1941, in Marion, Indiana, Larry was the beloved son of the late Alva and Wilma (Whittaker) Phillips.

A lifelong resident of Monticello, Larry was a dedicated educator, having taught at the Franklin School and later at Roosevelt Middle School as a Science teacher before retiring. Many knew him for his yearly paddle signing practices. 

Larry was a graduate of Mississinewa High School and earned his Bachelor of Science and Master’s degree in Earth Science and Chemistry from Ball State University. He was formerly married to Earla (Gump) Miller, who survives him in Monticello.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, David Phillips and his wife Shirley of Monticello, and Amy Naylor and her husband Brian of Kaneohe, Hawaii. Larry was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren, Myles Naylor, Emily Martinez, J.R. Schackelford, and Bobby Schackelford. He was a great-grandfather to Keegan Schackelford.

Larry had a passion for refurbishing furniture, gardening, and collecting rocks and Indian artifacts. Larry was also a pickle-making master.  He was known for his ability to fix almost anything worthy of his time. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the Fred L. Memorial Chapel at Roscka Roth & Clapper Funeral Home in Monticello, from 2:00pm until the time of services celebrating Larry's life at 4:00pm, with Pastor Ian McMillian officiating.

The fear of others lays a snare, but one who trusts in the Lord is secure.—Proverbs 29:25