Big John smiling with a loved one

In loving memory of

John Leonard
Phillips Sr.

“Big John”

February 13, 1940 — September 13, 2026

86 Years of Strength, Love & Legacy

Forever remembered. Forever loved.

Forever in Our Hearts

Love never ends.
It finds a new place.

In the quiet of September, the thirteenth day,

We remember sweet Johnny, who danced life away.

With a heart full of joy and a spirit so bright,

He traveled the world, chasing dreams in the light.

His laughter would echo like music on air,

Each step a celebration, each moment a prayer.

From sun-kissed horizons to mountains so grand,

He held his beloved, hand in hand.

Though the world feels a little less bright now he’s gone,

His love lingers on, like a sweet, timeless song.

A protector of family, steadfast and true,

In their hearts, he will always shine through.

As memories weave gently like threads of a dance,

They’ll cherish his spirit, his laughter, his glance.

So let’s celebrate Johnny, his journeys, his grace,

For love never ends, it just finds a new place.

In the rhythm of life, let his legacy sway,

As we hold on to love, come what may.

Though he’s traveled beyond to a place far and wide,

In the hearts of his family, forever he’ll bide.

The Life of Big John

A life built on strength, discipline, and love.

Big John showing his strength outdoors

John Leonard Phillips Sr., affectionately known as “Big John,” was born February 13, 1940, in the Bronx, New York, and passed away September 13, 2026, in San Diego, California, at the age of 86.

For more than 25 years, John worked as a truck driver, earning the respect of those around him through consistency, dependability, and a strong work ethic.

He served his country as a Marine Veteran and sharpshooter and carried that discipline and steadiness throughout his life.

Boxing was much more than a hobby for John. It was part of his identity and one of his greatest accomplishments.

History Made

Texas State Golden Gloves
Heavyweight Champion

First Black man to win the Texas State Golden Gloves Heavyweight Championship.

United States Marine Veteran

Sharpshooter

25+ Years

Professional Truck Driver

Life Journey

86 Years of a Life Well Lived

1940

Born in the Bronx, New York

Service

Served his country as a United States Marine and sharpshooter

Boxing

Made history as the first Black Texas State Golden Gloves Heavyweight Champion

Career

More than 25 years as a professional truck driver

Family

Husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and protector of his family

2026

Passed away in San Diego, California on September 13

Big John surrounded by the younger generations of his family
Big John with familyBig John at a family gathering

His Greatest Legacy — Family

Love carried forward through generations.

John was preceded in death by his son, John Leonard Phillips Jr.

Wife

Renee Criss Phillips

Daughters

Sheila Marie Phillips

Angel Monique Phillips Caruso

Marina Dawn Boyds

Stepchildren

Adele Thompson

Patrick Smith

Grandchildren

Mica Caruso

Angelo Caruso

Joshua Suber

Jacob Suber

Edward Super

Angeliq Caruso

Monte Caruso

Great-granddaughter

Juni Caruso

Siblings

Charles Phillips

Edrina Smith

Photo Gallery

Through the Years

Stories That Live On

Share a Memory of Big John

Help us preserve Big John’s story. Share a memory, photograph, lesson, or moment that you would like his family and future generations to remember.

Memory Wall

“The stories shared here will become part of Big John’s living legacy.”

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Gathering in His Honor

Celebration of Life

Celebration details will be announced soon.

The family will share the date, time, location, reception, and online viewing information here when arrangements are finalized.

Support the Family

Honor Big John

For those who have asked how they can support the family or contribute in Big John’s memory, you may do so below. Your love, prayers, memories, and support are deeply appreciated.

Contribution details will be shared by the family.

No payment information is collected by this memorial.

Memorial Guestbook

Leave Your Love

Light a Candle for Big John

A quiet symbol of remembrance, gratitude, and love.

candles have been lit in Big John’s memory.

Words & Wisdom

Pieces of a personality never forgotten.

A husband. A father. A grandfather. A great-grandfather. A Marine. A sharpshooter. A professional driver. A champion boxer. A history maker.

Carry His Story With You

Share this memorial

Invite family and friends to visit, share a memory, and keep Big John’s story alive.

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Memorial QR Code

Place this code on the funeral program so guests can visit Big John’s memorial.

John Leonard Phillips Sr.

February 13, 1940 — September 13, 2026

Forever Loved. Forever Remembered.

His life was a blessing. His memory is a treasure. His love lives on through the generations he leaves behind.

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