News Summary
The Chattanooga community is grieving the loss of Thomas “Tom” Mason Phillips, who passed away at 85 on April 30, 2025. A dedicated public servant, he worked for the TVA and served in the U.S. Army Reserves. His commitment to family, faith, and community will be deeply missed, with a private graveside service planned at Chattanooga National Cemetery.
Chattanooga, Tennessee – The community is mourning the loss of longtime resident Thomas “Tom” Mason Phillips, who passed away at the age of 85 on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Phillips was a well-respected figure in Chattanooga, remembered for his dedication to service both in his career and the military.
Tom Phillips was the son of the late Mason Burt Phillips and Edith Frost Phillips. He was predeceased by his sister, Carolyn Pettyjohn, and two brothers, Charles and Paul Phillips. His legacy continues through his wife of 46 ½ years, Linda J. Phillips, along with their children: daughter Sheri Seibert (David) of Altha, Florida, and three sons: Brad Miller (Donna) and Joe Phillips (Tina) from Chattanooga, and Chris Miller (Kat) from Cleveland, Tennessee. He is also survived by three grandchildren: Justin Miller, Natalie Phillips, and Connor Phillips, as well as two great-grandchildren, Dominic and Leah Miller. Additionally, he leaves behind several nieces and nephews.
Phillips dedicated 21 years of his professional life to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), where he was regarded for his passion and commitment to his work. Alongside his career, he served in the U.S. Army Reserves for 23 years, during which he was stationed at Fort Campbell during Desert Storm. His military service underscored a life devoted to public service, and he was committed to the values instilled in him through his faith in the Baptist community.
In his personal life, Tom had a love for golf, which he enjoyed during his free time, reflecting his spirited personality. The Chattanooga community will remember him not only for his contributions to the workforce and military but also for the warmth he brought to his family and friends.
A private family graveside service is scheduled to be held at the Chattanooga National Cemetery. The service will be officiated by Rev. Kenneth McElhaney, during which military rites will be conducted in honor of his service to the nation.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, further emphasizing the kind-hearted nature Tom Phillips exhibited throughout his life. Those wishing to share their thoughts and memories can do so online at Chattanooga Valley View Chapel.
Arrangements are being managed by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Valley View Chapel, located at 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421. As the community reflects on Thomas Phillips’s life, his commitment to family, service, and faith leaves a lasting impact.
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Additional Resources
- Heritage Chattanooga: William Jack Jackson Phillips
- Times Free Press: Inelda Hefferlin
- Williamson & Sons Funeral Home: Gregory Phillips
- Dignity Memorial: Theressa Phillips
- Google Search: Thomas Mason Phillips Chattanooga
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
