Henry C. Phillips

Henry Cornelious Phillips, Sr., affectionately known as “Brophil,” was born on Tuesday, January 25, 1949, in Conway, South Carolina, and later became a cherished resident of Woodbridge, Virginia. On Saturday, January 24, 2026, just one day shy of his 77th birthday, he peacefully transitioned to eternal rest at his home. He was the ninth of twelve children born to the late Samuel Phillips, Sr. and the late Maggie Bellamy Phillips, and throughout his life he carried with him the strong values of faith, resilience, and deep love for family that were nurtured in his large and devoted household. Henry received his education in the Horry County Public School System in South Carolina. On July 3, 1969, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army, where he honorably served his country for two years during the Vietnam War. Demonstrating unwavering dedication, he completed a second tour of duty lasting eleven months and eight days before receiving an honorable discharge on June 11, 1972. Following his military service, Brophil devoted thirty-six years of faithful and distinguished service to the United States Postal Service, retiring in 2008 after a long and commendable career. Henry found not just a church, but a spiritual home at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, where he joined the congregation on December 16, 2007, through Christian Experience under the pastorate of Dr. Harry J. Pilson. A committed member of the Men’s Ministry, Brother Phillips served with quiet dedication and unwavering spirit, remaining steadfast in his love and commitment to Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church until his season of illness. He met the love of his life, Ms. H. Danielle Harris, and they were united in holy matrimony on Thursday, June 9, 2005. Throughout Henry’s lengthy illness, his devoted wife cared for him with remarkable patience, strength, and unwavering dedication. Her selfless love, steadfast presence, and tender compassion brought him comfort and peace, beautifully reflecting the depth of the bond they shared. Henry was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and family man who placed God and family at the center of his life, finding great joy in time spent with loved ones and taking pride in guiding, supporting, and praying for them. His wisdom, kindness, and unwavering faith left a lasting impression on all who knew him, and his legacy of love, strength, and devotion will continue to live on through his family. He was the proud father of one son, Henry Cornelious Phillips, Jr., affectionately known as “Neal,” and two daughters, Ayeisha Phillips and Samantha Phillips, and the proud grandfather of Jayden James “JJ” Goore, Quantayvious McMillian, Amontrell McMillian, Khalil McMillian, and Zy’Rell Brown. Brophil delighted in fellowship with family and friends, opening his heart and home with warmth and generosity, and he treasured gatherings filled with shared meals, heartfelt conversation, and joyful laughter, always valuing unity, love, and togetherness. His presence brought a spirit of peace and joy to all who assembled, and among his greatest pastimes was fishing, a cherished hobby that provided him with calm, reflection, and simple happiness. Henry was loved by many and will be deeply missed, and his sweet spirit will forever resonate in our hearts. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, H. Danielle Phillips; his son, Henry Cornelious Phillips, Jr., “Neal”; and his two daughters, Ayeisha Phillips and Samantha Phillips. He is also survived by his three brothers, Samuel Phillips Jr., Lewis Phillips, and Milton Phillips (Mary); one sister, Frances Palmar; one sister-in-law, Emma Phillips; five grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will continue to honor his life and legacy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Phillips Sr. and Maggie Phillips; and his siblings, Phennie Hemmingway, Christine Minor, Wesley Phillips, Cornell Phillips Sr., Hattie Allen, Verdel Sumpter, and Charles Phillips. The family will receive friends from 10-11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026 at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, 6477 Lincolnia Road, Alexandria, VA, where a service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Interment with military honors will take place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Quantico National Cemetery, 18424 Joplin Road, Triangle, VA 22172.

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Henry C. Phillips

January 25, 1949 - January 24, 2026