John E. Phillips age 83 of North Canton, passed away Friday after a short illness. Born in Cleveland to the late John and Vera (Avery) Phillips, he was a 1951 graduate of Benedictine High School. John retired in 1993 after 41 years of service in the United States Army and the Ohio Army National Guard as a Chief Warrant Officer Four. He was a member of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, lifetime member of the Ohio National Guard Association, lifetime member of the 37th Division Veterans Association-HQ 37th Infantry Division, American Legion Post 221, Amvets and a Sponsoring member of the USO. John was also an avid golfer. He is survived by his wife of 62 years Joan R. (Murray) Phillips, and daughter and son-in-law Pamela A. and Jeffrey L. Chine. His Grandsons, Major Benjamin J. and Specialist Nicholas R. Gillespie both served in the United States Army. Private family services were held. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Stark County Humane Society or a local food bank.