Dale Leroy Phillips, of Champaign, formerly of Tuscola, passed away at 3:53 a.m., Wednesday, February 10, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family at the age of 86.

He was born on July 29, 1934 to Adrian and Mabel Rideout Phillips in Tuscola, as the eldest son. He married Marlene Wilson on June 1, 1957 in Villa Grove, IL.

Dale graduated from Tuscola High School in 1952. He was a lifelong farmer and enjoyed being outside, "kicking clods" and spending time with family. He also worked at Douglas Transit Company and Oye Trucking Company as a driver. He lived his entire life in Tuscola in his childhood home, where he was born, until about a year ago when he and his wife relocated to be closer to family.

He was a member of Tuscola United Methodist Church, TNT class and Methodist Men. He was strong and hard working. He will be remembered for his calm demeanor, smile, and his perfect timing for a joke.

He is survived by his wife, Marlene, of 63 years, children: Debra Campbell (Chris), and Michael (Roselyn) Phillips, son-in-law: Pete Frieden, grandchildren: Ashley Tennill (Chad), Sarah Caruso (Frank), Brandon Phillips (Ashley), Kayla Phillips (Daniel), Kelsey Frieden, Jesse Frieden and Lacey Frieden. He will be missed by 7 beautiful great-granddaughters: Kylie and Adelyn Tennill, Carina and Cora Caruso, Zoe and Olivia Govro, and Gracelyn Phillips. He is also survived by his brother, Larry Phillips (Carolyn) of Tuscola and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather: Maurice Baker, sisters: Helen Kelly (Eugene), Iola Gray (Alan), Dorothy Rogers (Leslie), step-sister: Dorothy Lytle (Lloyd) and two nieces.

Special thanks to OSF Hospice for their amazing care, especially Karen, Heather and Tomi.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 13, 2021 at the Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, 705 South Main Street, Tuscola, IL. Burial will follow in the Tuscola Township Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, February 12, 2021 at the funeral home. Please wear a face mask and practice social distancing.

Memorials may be made to Tuscola United Methodist Church, SAM Food Pantry or OSF Hospice.

Online condolences may be shared via hilligossshraderfh.com