Thomas Ewing “Tom” Phillips, 74, of Cadiz, formerly of Chillicothe, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at The Meadows of Cadiz. His wife remained by his side with unwavering devotion and steadfast love.

Tom was born June 8, 1951, in Chillicothe, the son of the late John Scott and Eloise Martin Phillips.

Tom attended Chillicothe High School, graduating in 1969. While there, he was an excellent student-athlete and was honored as an all-league fullback for the football team his senior year. He was also a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club, a student organization devoted to leadership, and Mathletes. He was selected as a delegate to Boys State.

After graduation, Tom furthered his education at Kenyon College, graduating in 1973. He then attended law school at the University of Cincinnati, becoming the fourth generation of the Phillips family to become a lawyer. Upon graduation, he entered the practice of law with his father in Chillicothe. He also served as assistant law director for the city of Chillicothe.

Tom had a unique sense of humor and was the king of puns, both good and bad. He was always up for an adventure and was known to throw a grand party, especially on the Fourth of July. He was a good friend to many, and his wit made him quite the entertainer. He was an avid swimmer and worked summers as a lifeguard at the country club in Chillicothe during his school years.

Tom enjoyed hiking, cooking using his mother’s recipes, music, reading, antique shopping, Graeter’s ice cream and Victorian homes. Tom was also a gifted writer and talented artist.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, John, Mike and Dan; and a stepdaughter, Marnie.

Surviving is his wife, Jeanne, whom he married in 1987 at his great-grandfather’s Victorian home in Chillicothe. Also surviving are his sister, Valerie (Bob) Althoff, and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held Monday, April 20, 2026, from 10 a.m. until noon at Clark-Kirkland-Barr Funeral Home, Cadiz, followed by a funeral Mass at 1 p.m. at St. Teresa Catholic Church in Cadiz, with the Rev. Fred Kihm as celebrant. Burial followed at Olive Branch Cemetery, Harrisville.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.

The memorial guestbook may be signed at www.clark-kirkland-barr.com.