Ronald Phillips

Ronald Murray Phillips, 91, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully at home on July 30, 2026.

Ron was born on March 5, 1935, in Detroit to the late George Alexander and Helen (Murray) Phillips. On February 20, 1954, in St. Ignace, Michigan, Ron married his high school sweetheart, Joan Helen MacDonald. Together, they shared 72 wonderful years of marriage and built a beautiful life and legacy.

Ron honorably served our country as a member of the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he entered the field of finance, earning degrees from the University of Michigan School of Banking in Ann Arbor, the Northern Michigan University School of Banking in Marquette, and the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

After launching his career at 1st National Bank of St. Ignace (1959–1965), Ron spent 30 distinguished years (1965–1995) with Chemical Bank, serving as Senior Vice President in Midland, and President/CEO in Marshall, Stanton, and Grayling, Michigan. Passionate about education and mentoring others, he also served as an instructor at Northwood Institute in Midland and Delta College in Bay City.

Throughout his life, Ron was deeply committed to community leadership, holding numerous executive and board positions for charitable organizations, including the Midland County United Way and Michigan United Way.

A quintessential family man and a deeply loyal friend, Ron’s formative years in St. Ignace laid the foundation for friendships that lasted a lifetime. His love for the wild and wonderful landscapes of Northern Michigan forged an enduring passion for golf, the woods, boats, and time spent on the water. Above all, Ron possessed a rare ability to make everyone around him feel instantly comfortable; his warmth, empathy, quick sense of humor, and easygoing manner made him truly unforgettable.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joan; their children Susan (Russell) Leonardi, David (the late Lisa Schultz) Phillips, Nancy (David Kobrinetz) Phillips, and Doug (Erma) Phillips; grandchildren Paul Leonardi, Dax Phillips, Quinna Phillips, Shayna Kobrinetz, and Sawyer Phillips; and great-grandchildren Colson and Zhane Leonardi.

Private family services were held in Traverse City. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Michigan United Way or a charity of choice.