Phillip Gerald Richards, age 82, of Oswego, IL passed away peacefully on April 11th, 2023, in his sleep.

Phil was born on May 26, 1940, to Loren and Edna Richards in Russell Springs, KY.

After Phil graduated from Mansfield High School in 1958. He began working as a switchman for GTE and later Verizon and continued to work there for 47 years. In 1957, Phil met Shirley at a gas station in Mansfield and they were married on August 1, 1959, in Indianola, MS.

Phil was predeceased by his mother Edna, his father Loren, his sister Jan and his grandson Henry.

He is survived by his wife Shirley, his son Todd Phillip, daughter Melissa Louise Hauser (Brian) and 4 grandchildren Lucy Rechsteiner (Jacob), Sophie, Gus and Phoebe Hauser.

Phil officially retired from farming and the phone company in 2007, but continued to work on anything and everything he could get his hands on. While working for the phone company he also ran a hog farm, had an extensive garden, owned a mechanic shop, and let his kids enjoy almost any pet, hobby, and sport of their choosing. Phil was truly a jack of all trades and was ready to help anyone out who needed it. He loved Shirley with all his heart and his kids and grandkids too. He was always ready with a piece of advice or a helping hand. He loved being busy with projects and was looking forward to gardening this spring. His tulip garden at their home in Oswego is truly spectacular.

Services will be held on Saturday, April 15th at DUNN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY 1801 S. Douglas Road Oswego, IL 60543.

There will be a visitation from 9-11am, service will begin at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Mackey Cemetery C/O Frannie Dick 734 E 1700N. Monticello, IL 61856.

He loved this little country cemetery where his family is at rest. Phil planted trees and flowers here every year and his family hopes this can continue in his memory.

For information, 630-554-3888 or www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com