Raymond (Ray) E. Phillips
October 4, 1935 – June 20, 2023
Raymond E. Phillips 87, of Helena MT, passed away June 20, 2023, due to complications from a fall.
Ray was born October 4, 1935, in Lime Springs, Iowa to Lester and Myrtle Phillips. At an early age, Ray moved to Augusta, MT with his Mom and brother, Jim.
In school, Ray enjoyed playing sports, including football and rodeo. During high school, he met his best friend and life partner, Noel Mosher. Ray and Noel were married on July 6, 1958.
Ray and Noel started their life in Helena, having two daughters Brenda and Cheryl.
Ray worked his entire career in the auto body repair business retiring from Hjelm’s Body Shop.
Even in Ray’s off time, he worked on rebuilding cars with his brother Jim. He also enjoyed camping and boating in the lakes around Helena, along with hunting and fishing.
After retirement, Ray and Noel would travel to Yuma, AZ for the winter until they decided they were missing out on their growing family in Helena.
Ray is survived by his wife of 64 years, Noel, and daughters Brenda Thomas (Richard Lyon), of Townsend, and Cheryl Luther, of Charlotte, NC. Grandsons Kevin Thomas and Travis (Beth) Thomas of East Helena. Granddaughters Paige Luther and Brooke Luther.
Great-grandchildren Peyton, Riley, Teighlor, and John. Sister-in-law Betsy Phillips of Helena and nieces Debbie (Jeff) Ferguson, and Stevi (Jason) Westmoreland, of Great Falls. Great nephews Brad Miller, Danny (Michelle Piprude) Miller, Deryk (Justine) Pearsall and their sons, Leo and Griffin. Great niece Kelcie (Jordan) Van Voast and their daughters, Ellie and Renley.
Ray was preceded in death by his Dad Les Phillips, his Mom Myrtle Phillips, his brother James Phillips and his son-in-law John Thomas.
At Ray’s request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to a charity of your choice.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Larry and Chris Hoffman says
Noel and family,
Larry and I were sad to read of Ray’s passing! Our condolences during this difficult time. Ray was a very good man and will be missed!
Noel and family,
We were sad to read of Ray’s passing. What a great man who will be missed by many! Our condolences during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you.
Kathleen Broussard says
Brenda and family
So very sorry about your dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Keith, Kathleen and Kory Broussard
Cathy (Pullin) Kovich says
Brenda and family,
You all are in my thoughts and prayers. May all the happy memories replace your sorrow as time passes.
Becky Casteel says
Brenda and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad. Forever in our hearts. Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day. Unseen. Unheard. But always near. Still loved. Still missed and very dear. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Becky Smigaj Casteel