James Robert “J.R.” Phillip, Sr.

James Robert "J.R." Phillip, Sr., of Hinsdale and more recently Westmont, IL was born in Chicago on July 8, 1925 to James A. and Helen Phillip. Passed away peacefully on June 22, 2010 at the age of eighty-four. A navigator in the U.S. Air Force during WWII, J.R. graduated from Northwestern University with a commerce degree then joined his parents' flower business, Phillip's Flowers & Gifts, founded in Cicero, IL in 1923, where he remained actively involved for 61 years, serving as Chairman Emeritus up to his passing. A floral designer and local entrepreneur, J.R. was a co-founder and director of the Bank of LaGrange Park, a co-founder of the Metro Chicago Florist Delivery Coop, and a member of the American Academy of Floriculture (AAF). A man of faith and family, J.R. was also a longtime member and past elder of Christ Church of Oak Brook. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Mary B. Phillip, sister Lee Phillip Bell of Chicago television fame, brother and business colleague Russell Phillip; children Jim (Gwen), Don (Sandy) and Baxter (Martha) Phillip, eight grandchildren; and one great grandson, many of whom are leading the family business forward into its fourth generation. A memorial service and celebration of faith in his honor, will be held Tuesday, June 29, 2010, 7:15 P.M. at Christ Church of Oak Brook, corner of 31st Street and York Road, Oak Brook. Arrangements by Hitzeman Funeral Home, Ltd. 9445 W. 31st Street, Brookfield. 60513. Information 708-485-2000 or www.HitzemanFuneral.com