Harry LaDon “Don” Phillips, Jr.
Greenville, S.C.

Harry LaDon (Don) Phillips, Jr., age 50, of Greenville, S.C., passed away Friday, Oct. 2, in Charlotte, N.C., surrounded by his family.

Don was born in New Orleans, La., on Nov. 9, 1964. He attended public schools in his hometown of Columbiana, and graduated from Shelby County High School in 1983. He was an Eagle Scout. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree with high honors from Auburn University in 1987. He obtained his juris doctorate degree from the University of Alabama School of Law in 1991.

Upon graduation from law school, he entered private practice in Greenville, S.C., first with the firm Haynsworth, Marion, McKay and Guerard, and then in 1995 with Hunter, Foster and Phillips. In 2001, he began practice with the South Carolina Department of Social Services, representing the Department in child and vulnerable adult abuse and neglect cases. In May 2011, Don was elected by the South Carolina General Assembly to the position of Family Court Judge, Thirteenth Judicial Circuit, Seat 3.

Don loved Auburn football, rain, fall weather, barbeque, fishing, Star Wars, Thanksgiving, chocolate milk, and storytelling. For a man who was never on time, he did love a new watch. He was devoted to his family and loved by his friends.

He is survived by his wife, Tammy, and their four children, whom he adored: sons Hank, Carson, and Walker, and daughter Peyton. Don is also survived by his sister, Sabra (Jeff) Winkle of Vestavia Hills; his brother, Ashley (Stephanie) Phillips of Columbiana; as well as loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, and a host of long-time friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Harry L. and Sue Smith Phillips of Columbiana.

Visitation will be held Monday, Oct. 5, at Buncombe Street United Methodist Church from 2–3:45 p.m. followed by the memorial service at 4 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Epworth Children’s Home at 2900 Millwood Avenue, PO Box 50466, Columbia, S.C., 29250.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting Thomasmcafee.com.

Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Downtown, Greenville, S.C., directing.