Larry Phillips

Larry Wayne Phillips, 73, died  Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, at his home in rural Seward County.

He was born July 30, 1950 to Melvyn Rae and Glenda Janice (Pedersen) Phillips in Beaver, Oklahoma.

He graduated from Liberal High School in 1968.During his high school career, Larry was class president, performed in several plays and held the pole vault record at LHS for many years. He attended the University of Oklahoma before starting a career in the oil and gas industry that led him across the globe including extended stays on the Alaska Northern Slope and throughout the Pacific Rim. Larry returned to Liberal in 2000 and began a career as a newspaper reporter for the Southwest Daily Times before becoming the managing editor, a position he filled until his retirement with the Leader & Times in 2017. During his tenure as managing editor, the newspaper was recognized with multiple Sweepstakes awards, with Larry garnering several individual awards for his writing, in particular for his writing on the Opinion page. Larry was honored by the Liberal Chamber of Commerce on their Men and Women of Distinction calendar.

Survivors include son Tyler Phillips and daughter-in-law Kristie of Ponte Vedra, Fla., grandson Jake Phillips of Pone Vedra, Fla., granddaughter Vivian Phillips, Ponte Vedra, Fla.; sister Joy Beasley, Kismet; brother Anthony Phillips, Liberal; niece Tina Chester, Texas City, Texas; nephew Abe Velasquez, Jr., Texas City, Texas; nephew Melvyn Velasquez, Liberal; nephew Robert Phillips, Smyrna Tenn.; and niece Tosha Jones, of Smyrna Tenn.
He also had 19 great nieces and nephews and 10 great great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Janice Phillips, father Melvyn Phillips and brother Curtis Phillips.

Larry’s Memorial Service will take place at 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023, at his country home, 14498 Road T, Kismet, Kan., 67859 with Rev. Rex Petty officiating. Those attending are asked to bring lawn chairs.