Charles Alexander Phillips

Charles Alexander Phillips, 85, of Traverse City passed away peacefully on Monday, November 25, 2024. Charlie was born on March 17, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Julius and Mary (Bero) Phillips. He graduated from Lincoln Park High School. “Sharp and tall, fun for all.” was Charlie’s quote in his senior yearbook. How true this was! Following high school, Charlie had several adventures including spending a year in Alaska (in a tent), biking down the Pacific Coast Highway and hitchhiking to South America. Charlie also proudly served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in the Philippines. He married his “Princess”, Mary Helen Payette, on November 21, 1964, and together they had three sons. While they moved houses 15 times they resided in Michigan their entire married life. After retirement they enjoyed wintering in Tavares, Florida. Charlie was a lifelong salesman and sold cameras, clothes, wine, cars, wood and Procter & Gamble products. He had a passion for fishing, classic cars, watching sports, playing cards and being surrounded by his children and grandchildren. Charlie is survived by his brother, Phil (Sharon), and his sons, Andrew (Allison) of Plymouth, MI, John (Lori) of Charlotte, NC, and Paul (Jennise) of Traverse City, MI. “Papa” leaves 7 grandchildren behind who loved him very much; Noah (Kamryn), Juliana, Natalie, Olivia, Jordan, William and Lucille. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Mary Helen, and sister, Joyce (James) Franklin. Charlie had a deep devotion to the Catholic faith, finding strength and peace in the love of God and leaning on the teachings of Christ throughout his life. He is leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and charity. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11am on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Visitation will be at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home on Friday, Jan. 3 from 4-6 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Charlie’s memory may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or the Father Fred Foundation. Kindly share thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. Rest in peace, Chas. You will be greatly missed.

Charles Alexander Phillips

March 17, 1939 - November 25, 2024