Ronald Earl Phillips' Obituary
Ronald Earl Phillips, 80, of Culpeper, passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at INOVA Fairfax Hospital. He was born on September 9, 1944, to the late Joseph and Margaret Williams Phillips in Pennsylvania.
Ronald proudly served in the United States Navy for four years, where he flew in helicopters as a photographer, capturing moments from the skies with courage and precision. After his military service, he continued his commitment to public safety as a member of the Fairfax City Police Department, where he eventually retired with honor.
Not one to rest, he went on to serve with the Commonwealth of Virginia as a DMV Investigator and later as a field representative for the Virginia Motor Vehicle Dealer Board. His work ethic, integrity, and dedication to justice were apparent in every role he held.
Ronald had a deep and unwavering faith that guided him through life. His spiritual beliefs were not just something he held privately, but a light that shone through in his actions, kindness, and the way he treated others. He lived his life as a reflection of his faith with love, integrity, humility, and compassion. His trust in God provided him with strength, peace, and purpose.
Beyond his impressive career, he will be remembered most for his deep and unwavering love for animals. Whether it was a stray dog, a curious bird, or even the tiniest worm crossing a sidewalk, he showed compassion and care without hesitation. Animals spoke to his soul, and he listened with his heart.
His legacy of service, kindness, and fierce protection of all living creatures leaves an indelible mark on those who knew him.
Ronald is survived by his wife, Cheryl Rayeski Phillips; his children, Ronald Earl Phillips II and wife, Dawn; Brett Blaine Phillips and wife, Karen; Angela Longpre and husband, Nick; and Adam Theodore Phillips; his grandchildren, Dylan Phillips, Cole Phillips, Brianna Phillips, Cody Phillips, Ashley Jenkins and husband, Johnpaul, Nathaniel Phillips, Hannah Phillips, Ainsley Phillips, Julia Bell, Ryleigh Longpre, and Jaxon Longpre; one great grandson, Loren Jenkins; two brothers, Protus Phillips and Joseph Phillips; his daughter in law, Kathy Batts; his beloved dogs, Opie and Fanny; his cherished cat, Andy; and a host of extended family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Ronald is preceded in death by his son, Wade Phillips; Brett and Adam’s mother, Dawn Phillips; and his sister, Barbara Curtis.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Culpeper, 850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service.
Inurnment will be private.
The Fairfax City Police Department and the United States Navy will provide police and Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ronald’s name to the Culpeper
Animal Shelter at 10144 James Monroe Highway, Culpeper, VA, 22701, or to Samaritans Purse at
https://www.samaritanspurse.org/.
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