James Kent Phillips passed away peacefully on April 1, 2023, surrounded by family after a long battle with heart failure.
Born May 23, 1968, in Los Angeles, CA to Ray A. Phillips and Marilyn Lunt Phillips, the youngest of 5 children. He grew up in Salt Lake City and graduated from East High School in 1987 and attended Dixie College. He owned and operated his own landscaping company until 1998 and went on to work as Property Manager for the family business for many years.
In 2002 he met the love of his life, Marianne. They spent 22 beautiful years together until his passing. He was the father of five children whom he adored and enjoyed spending time with whether it be riding motorcycles or working on cars with his boys or having teddy bear tea parties with his girls. Kent had a fire and passion for life that was contagious. His personality was larger than life. He was the life of the party, always making everyone laugh with his jokes and impersonations. Kent had a passion for motorcycles and when he wasn’t riding you could find him in the garage rebuilding an old bike or making a new one run faster. He had a natural talent for fixing things and was always “on call” helping friends and neighbors with emergency car or home repairs.
Kent was loved dearly by his family and friends and his passing has created a void that can never be filled. Our hearts are broken. He will be deeply missed. Kent is preceded in death by his father, Ray Phillips, and grandparents. He is survived by his sweetheart Marianne, his children Carter, Ben (Adriah), Tyler, Kaitlyn, and Maddie, and 7 grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother Marilyn Phillips, and siblings; Kathy Millet (Art), Cindy Haglund (John), Kendall Phillips, and Shauna Van Buren (Jim).
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 pm on Saturday, April 8th, 2023 at the Hilltop Ward House, 589 East 18th Avenue, Salt Lake City, UT with visitation one hour prior to services. Interment will be in the Salt Lake City Cemetery.
The family wishes to thank the Heart Failure team at University Hospital. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the University of Utah cardiology department.
I was introduced to Kent through a mutual friend in the late 80’s, early 90’s. Immediately, I knew that he was a great guy that like to laugh and spend time together with family and friends. Fortunately for me I had the chance to meet and spend some time with him, they were great times. I send my condolences to his family.
We are so sorry for your loss. Kent was one of the best. We will always remember, his smile and his laugh. He always had a way of making people feel good. He will be greatly missed, but he will always be in our hearts.
Marianne, you and your family are in my thoughts and I am so very sorry for your loss.
My deepest condolences on your loss, Marianne and family. Please know my thoughts are with you.
So sorry… a very fine man…..great family, Julie and David Monson
Kent was a genuine person, fun to be around with a real love of life. He was a brother and will be missed. My condolence to Marianne and the family.
Dear Kent and family,
Kent and i meet years ago and we just instantly understood each other! We grew up with the same backgrounds and had alot of similiar values! Kent always had a good attitude and level headed advice.! And was so cute and funny. We parted and kept running into each other. So it was a frienship i will never forget. He will always be in my heart and mind! And Kent loved all his family dearly! He told me so! And he will always be with us all! He is just a special soul!
Until we run into each other again! I love you Kent!
Your old friend,
Sue
I'm sorry for the family he's going to be
Missed
My dearest Aunt, cousins and Kent’s family: We are heartbroken to hear of Kent’s passing, and want you to know you are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. Wishing you peace and comfort from your memories in the tough days ahead.
Love Scott and Julie
I just heard the sad news. I'm so sorry for you Marianne. If you need anything let me know. My heart is so heavy right now. You are in my prayers. 801 970 3945