THE DAYTONA BEACH NEWS-JOURNAL
Daytona Beach, Florida
Sunday, December 19, 2010


Robert B. Phillips peacefully passed away, with dignity and peace December 15, 2010, at the age of 92.

Mr. Phillips was born in the Bronx, New York, April 16, 1918, where he spent his youth and developed the hobby model airplane building which was to become his life's passion and career.

He began his aviation career path as a private pilot for a publisher out of New York's Roosevelt Field. During the early part of World War II, he was a Major in the Marines, stationed at Jacksonville Naval Air Station where he was responsible for the instruction of fighter and helicopter pilots.

Bob's career path continued with the development and instruction of an aeronautical technical training program at Landon High School, where he also met and married his wife. In 1948, Bob was recruited by the owner of National Air Lines to spearhead the Operations and Training Division of this new airline in Miami, Florida where he became the Director of Training. Mr. Phillips was instrumental in the development of flight standards both onboard aircraft as well as long-term maintenance programs.

During his career in Miami, he became an associate professor of aviation at the University of Miami and was instrumental in the foundation of the fraternity Sigma Alpha Tau. In 1961, Mr. Phillips accepted a position with the Federal Aviation Administration in Washington, D.C. where he continued his focus on flight standards until his retirement.

Bob and his wife of sixty years were extensive travelers both in Europe as well as in North America with their Airstream caravan friends. In retirement, he developed his hobbies of photography, learning to play the organ, semi-precious stone work, writing, and loved "tinkering" with electronics.

Bob was a devoted family man and was surrounded by his family during his final days.

He leaves a proud legacy. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Karen and David Sevison; son, Steve Phillips; grandchildren and spouses, Teri and David Aboulafia, Craig and Greta Radley and Kyle Phillips; as well as three great grandchildren, who all knew their Great Grandpa and loved him, Willow and Wren Aboulafia and Merrick Radley.

Finally, Bob developed a sincere concern for his fellow community members struggling with financial hardships and demonstrated this concern while giving of his fragile energies to the Grace Community Food Pantry.

His family requests that in lieu of flowers, a tax deductible donation be made to the above named Pantry, in his name, and sent to 5400 E. Highway 100, Palm Coast, FL 32164.

Arrangements are in the care and trust of Craig Flagler Palms Funeral Home.