J.R. Phillips, 80 J.R. Phillips, 80 of Ashland passed away late Tuesday evening, October 25, 2016 in Crystal Care. He was born October 26, 1935 to the late Luther and Elsie (nee Forrester) Phillips in Mountain City, Tennessee. J.R. married the former Nannie Icenhour. He retired after more than 24 years in 1981where he was a Forman with the National Automatic Sprinkler Union # 669. J.R. was an avid bowler at both King and Luray Lanes in Ashland for many years where he successfully achieved several 300 games. He was an avid Cleveland sports enthusiasts and NASCAR fan. J.R. also played Bingo and enjoyed watching Ashland High School Volleyball. J.R. restored his historical show truck and won many awards for it. He also watched golf throughout his life. He is survived by his daughter, Joyce Hively of Galion; his son, Jerry Phillips of Ashland; two grandchildren, Christopher Willis of Galion and Megan Hively of Galion; one great granddaughter, Gabrielle Willis; one sister, Wilma (Gerald) McQuistion of Mansfield; three brothers, Ted (late Charlotte) Phillips of Mansfield, Benjamin “Hal” (Connie) Phillips of Bucyrus, and Bill Phillip of Mansfield. In addition to his parents, J.R. is preceded in death by his wife, Nannie Phillips who passed away on December 25, 2005; one son, Michael Phillips who passed away on September 15, 1959; and two brothers, Wayne and Richard Phillips. Friends may call Sunday, October 30, 2016 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home, 313 Center Street, Ashland, Ohio, 44805 to help defray final expenses. For those who may not be able to attend, online condolences may be shared on the funeral home’s website at denbowfh.com. Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory is handling the arrangements.