Chester

Phillips

Chester Lee Phillips was born on Sunday, August 19, 1956 in Abbeville, Mississippi. He moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan at a young age where he was raised and built the life and relationships that would define his legacy. Chester graduated from Central High School in 1975. A gifted athlete, Chester excelled in basketball, baseball, football, and track, bringing determination, discipline, and a competitive spirit to everything he pursued. He loved bowling and shooting pool and some of his happiest moments were spent watching his favorite teams – the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, and University of Michigan. Win or lose, he remained a loyal fan.

Anyone who knew Chester could recognize him before they even saw him. He had a distinctive voice that was unmistakable — one you could pick out in any crowd. Paired with his infectious smile and unforgettable laugh, his presence had a way of filling every room with light. He had a gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. No one ever left as a stranger after speaking to Chester. Above all, he cherished spending time with the people he loved and never missed an opportunity to support those closest to him.

Chester is survived by his beloved significant other, Laurie VanWingen, who faithfully stood by his side for 45 years sharing a lifetime of love, memories, and companionship. He was a proud father to his sons Chester "Ronnie" Malone and Corey Malone, daughter, Dr. LaTricia Phillips, and stepson, Curtis VanWingen, who each held a special place in his heart. He is also remembered by his children's significant others, Natalie Seeley and Shanika Duncan, who were a valued part of the family.

He is also survived by his four siblings: Denise Merriweather-Phillips (Richard Cole), Larelle Phillips-Jones (James William, Jr.), Charles Perry Phillips (Tonya Jackson), and Wilhelmina Phillips, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who will treasure their shared memories.

Chester was blessed with 16 grandchildren: Jamal Cadena, Honesti Malone, Diamond Holden, Uvauhandi Malone, Amarion Malone, Giuliana Seeley, Adore Malone, Azarhea Malone, Corey Malone, Jr., Dynasty Malone, Keaysha Malone, Coreyon "Juice" Malone, Korben VanWingen, Karlie VanWingen, Adriana VanWingen, and Evalinn VanWingen. And one great-grandson, Syncere Montgomery. Chester also held a special place in his heart for his grand dogs, the late Kiba, Rocky, Pauly, and Missy who brought additional happiness into his life.

Chester was preceded in death by his parents Willie Cecil Phillips and Maggie Mae Phillips (McIntosh), and his cherished grandmother, Donia McIntosh.

His life was enriched by special relationships with the Logan, Couch, Gibson, McIntosh, and Blakely families. He also shared a particularly special bond with Aunt Ruby and his cousins Johnnie Logan, Tina Sisk, Isaac "Skip" Bell, and his special friends, Laney George and her family, and Shon Davis.

Though our hearts are heavy with his passing on July 4, 2026 at age 69, we celebrate a life filled with love, kindness, resilience, and laughter. Chester's legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless lives he impacted.

Forever Loved. Forever Remembered. Forever Missed.