James B. "Buz" Phillips, Sr.

          FLORENCE – James Bennett “Buz” Phillips, Sr., 73, died Wednesday, July 17, 2024, after an illness.

          Buz was born in New Bern, North Carolina, a son of the late Wilma Clara Harris Phillips and William Bennett Phillips, Jr.  He graduated from McClenaghan High School and the SC Criminal Justice Academy. He began his career in law enforcement at the Florence County Sheriff’s Office and worked there and with other agencies for 32 years until his retirement.  He also worked in finance.

          Through his interest in his family genealogy, he connected with family members in Ayden, North Carolina, and considered it a “second home.”

          He is survived by his wife, Arla M. Phillips, of the home; a son, James B. Phillips, Jr. (Michelle) and granddaughter, Harllee Michelle Phillips, of Florence; a brother, M. Tommy Phillips, also of Florence; and three nephews.

         At the request of Mr. Phillips, no service will be held. He wished to be remembered for the life he lived, honoring the warrior’s code for family, friends, and his country.

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