In Loving Memory
Melvin Wayne Phillips, 81 years old, of Sainte Genevieve, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
He was born on September 2, 1945, to Melvin Joseph Phillips and Hester Marie (Duvall) Phillips. Melvin was raised on the family farm alongside his parents and grandparents, Everett and Josephine Phillips. Those early years on the farm helped shape the man he would become and created a lifelong connection to a place filled with family history and cherished memories.
Melvin was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud great-grandfather, and a man who found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He proudly served in the United States Navy on the USS Saratoga and was a member of VFW Post 2210 and Holy Cross Lutheran Church.
Some of Melvin’s favorite moments were spent listening to music, watching NASCAR and wrestling, and enjoying the classic movies he loved. He especially treasured time spent at the family farm in Perryville. Having grown up there surrounded by his parents and grandparents, the farm was much more than a place to Melvin-it was a piece of home, filled with memories of generations past and a connection to his family that remained close to his heart throughout his life.
Above all, Melvin loved his family. He was blessed with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who brought tremendous joy to his life. With another great-grandchild on the way, his family and the generations that follow will continue to carry a piece of him with them. The memories made together, the stories shared, and the love Melvin gave will remain a lasting part of his legacy.
Melvin is survived by his two daughters, Tamara (Ernest “Ernie”) Boggs and Paula (Jeff) Boland; brother, Randy (Gloria) Phillips; grandchildren, Andrew (Tammy) Thompson, Alek (Travis) Borcherding, Lacy Thompson, Logan Thompson, Damien (Sarah) Phillips, Brandon (Kaycie) Boland, and Colte (Salena) Boland; great-grandchildren, Brooklynn, Cohen, Parker, Taegyn, Elizabeth, David, Derrick, Myra, Saige, Samantha, Braxton, and one on the way; along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Caryl Ann (Brown) Phillips; his parents, Melvin Joseph and Hester Marie (Duvall) Phillips; and two brothers, Larry Phillips and Gary Phillips.
Visitation will be held at Basler Funeral Home in Sainte Genevieve, Missouri, on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.
A funeral service will be held at Basler Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
Burial will follow at Crestlawn Cemetery in Sainte Genevieve, Missouri with full military honors.
Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans.
Melvin will be remembered for the life he lived, the memories he created, and most importantly, the family he loved. Though he will be deeply missed, his presence will live on in the stories told, the traditions carried forward, and the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have known and loved him.
Online condolences can be left at www.baslerfuneralhome.com